Freetown, Sierra Leone — June 19, 2026 – Statistics Sierra Leone (Stats SL) has successfully wrapped up its nationwide cartographic mapping exercise, a key preparatory step for the country’s upcoming 2026 Population and Housing Census.
The milestone was marked Thursday with a symbolic mapping of the Presidential Lodge at Hill Station, attended by President Dr. Julius Maada Bio.
President Bio actively participated in the exercise, registering as Head of Household alongside the First Lady. The event highlighted the government’s commitment to delivering a credible, inclusive, and internationally recognized census.
Statistician-General and Chief Census Officer Andrew Bob Johnny briefed the President on the progress achieved so far, including the successful completion of the pilot census, the full nationwide mapping, and preparations now underway for the mock census.
Cartographic Consultant Dr. Foluke Adebayo detailed the mapping process, followed by a simulation video showcasing the operation’s achievements.
Speaking at the event, President Bio commended Stats SL for its “remarkable progress” and reaffirmed the government’s full support for the 2026 census. He stressed the importance of the mapping exercise in ensuring every household and structure is systematically identified.
“Cartographic mapping guarantees that no one is left behind,” the President said.
Cartographic mapping is a foundational pre-census activity that establishes Enumeration Areas and provides the geographical framework necessary for complete and accurate data collection across the country. Its successful conclusion represents a major step forward in Sierra Leone’s efforts to produce reliable, high-quality census data.
The 2026 Population and Housing Census is expected to provide critical updated information for national planning, policy formulation, and development initiatives.
