Statistics Launches Training of Trainers (ToT) for the Dec. 2026 Census
By: Amb. Unisa Totti Fofanah
Port Loko 26 Oct. 2026: Statistics Sierra Leone has commenced the Training of Trainers (ToT) program in the Northwest Region as part of preparations for the December 2026 Census The training ceremony was hosted at the prestigious Princess Amara Multipurpose Hall in Port Loko City, bringing together distinguished officials, technical experts, and other stakeholders to support the successful implementation of the forthcoming national census. The initiative forms part of the preparatory process aimed at equipping selected personnel with the necessary knowledge, skills, and understanding to perform their respective duties during the census exercise. The gathering also provided an opportunity for participants to appreciate the importance of accurate data collection, effective coordination, and professionalism in ensuring that the census process is conducted in an organized and credible manner.
The ceremony was graced by several distinguished personalities, including Mr. Lansana Kpewolo Kanneh- Deputy Statistician General and Deputy Chief Census Officer, Mr. Abdulai Salia Brima- Director of Census, Geographical Information System and Environment Statistics, and Mr. Charles Munda Kailie- Senior District Officer and Port Loko Civil Society Representative. Their participation underscored the importance of collaboration among technical authorities, district-level representatives, civil society, and other stakeholders in advancing the objectives of the census. The presence of these officials also provided an opportunity for participants to receive guidance from individuals directly involved in the coordination, administration, and technical implementation of the census program. Hosting the event at Princess Amara Multipurpose Hall further demonstrated the facility’s role in providing a suitable venue for professional engagements, institutional activities, capacity-building programs, and initiatives that contribute to national development.
In his inspiring and motivational statement, Mr. Lansana Kpewolo Kanneh, Deputy Statistician General and Deputy Chief Census Officer, encouraged participants to view the census exercise as a national call to service rather than merely an assignment or source of employment. He emphasized the importance of commitment, discipline, dedication, integrity, and a strong sense of responsibility in carrying out the tasks entrusted to them. His message challenged participants to recognize the wider national significance of their work, particularly the need to support the collection of reliable and accurate information that can contribute to informed decision-making and effective development planning. He further encouraged them to approach their responsibilities with seriousness and professionalism, understanding that the quality of their individual contributions would be important to the overall success of the December 2026 Census. His remarks served as a source of motivation, reinforcing the expectation that every participant should demonstrate a high level of accountability throughout the census process.
Meanwhile, Mr. Abdulai Salia Brima, Director of Census, Geographical Information System and Environment Statistics, delivered a statement on behalf of the Statistician General and Chief Census Officer, who was engaged in a corresponding programe at the national level in Freetown. His statement conveyed the leadership’s commitment to ensuring that the census preparations proceed through proper coordination, adequate training, and a clear understanding of the responsibilities assigned to personnel. During the ceremony, the terms of reference governing the assignment and the associated duties and responsibilities of the job were adequately highlighted to provide participants with a clearer understanding of their expected roles. Emphasis was placed on the need for personnel to understand their respective obligations, adhere to established procedures, maintain professional standards, and execute their assignments in accordance with the objectives of the census program. The clarification of these terms of reference was particularly important in helping participants understand the scope of their work, the expectations of the institution, and the significance of following the required operational guidelines.
The commencement of the Training of Trainers program in the Northwest Region represents an important step in preparing personnel for the December 2026 Census. Through the training, participants are expected to strengthen their understanding of census operations and acquire the knowledge necessary to support the effective execution of their assigned duties. The success of the exercise will depend on the commitment of trained personnel, the effectiveness of coordination mechanisms, and the cooperation of communities and relevant stakeholders throughout the region. As preparations continue, the message from the ceremony remains clear: conducting a successful census requires collective responsibility, professional dedication, and a shared commitment to national development. The engagement therefore stands as part of the broader preparatory effort to support a well-coordinated census exercise, recognizing that reliable population and household data are essential for evidence-based planning, resource allocation, public service delivery, and the advancement of Sierra Leone’s development priorities.