Freetown, Sierra Leone – The National Civil Registration Authority (NCRA) has published its provisional annual report on vital events for the year ending December 31, 2025, revealing a total of 306,057 live births recorded nationwide.
This figure comprises 149,968 males (49%) and 156,089 females (51%), with a sex ratio of 96 males per 100 females. Additionally, the report notes 3,739 stillbirths registered during the period.
The data underscores Sierra Leone’s persistently high birth numbers, aligning with the country’s estimated mid-2025 population of approximately 8.8 million and a projected crude birth rate of around 30-31 births per 1,000 people. These registered births represent a significant portion of the nation’s demographic expansion, though experts note that civil registration coverage remains incomplete in many areas.
On mortality, the NCRA recorded 17,905 deaths, with males accounting for 10,280 (57.4%) and females 7,625 (42.6%). A notable 5,652 deaths (32%) occurred among individuals aged 60 and above, while the 0-4 age group saw 2,697 fatalities (15%). The remaining deaths were distributed across ages 5-12 (374, or 2%) and 13-59 (9,182, or 51%). This age distribution highlights ongoing challenges with infant and child mortality alongside a growing burden from age-related conditions.
In terms of marriages, 755 unions were registered: 408 Christian (54%), 174 Islamic (23%), and 173 Civil (23%). Despite comprising only 23% of marriages, Civil unions represented a higher proportion of divorces. The report documented 60 divorces, paired under reviews, with Christian marriages at 18 (30%), Islamic at 18 (30%), and Civil at 21 (35%). Customary marriages accounted for the remaining 3 (5%).
Adoptions totaled 160 cases, of which 61 (38%) involved males and 99 (62%) females. A significant 62 cases (39%) concerned adolescents aged 13-17, while the 5-12 age group saw 37 (23%), and 0-4 years accounted for 60 (38%).
NCRA Director General Mohamed Mubashir Massaquoi emphasized the report’s role in national planning, stating that timely registration by citizens and residents is crucial for accurate vital statistics.
He urged greater public compliance with reporting births, deaths, marriages, divorces, adoptions, and nullities, thanking partner institutions for their collaboration.
The provisional report fulfills the NCRA’s mandate under the 2016 National Civil Registration Act to compile and disseminate data on vital events. While these figures provide valuable insights into Sierra Leone’s demographic trends, marked by robust natural growth, the authority notes that full coverage continues to improve, with low registration rates for certain events like community deaths remaining a challenge. This data will support government efforts in health, education, and resource allocation as the population continues to rise.
