The Democratic Republic of Congo has initiated its second General Population and Housing Census (RGPH-2), 42 years after the first census. The process was officially launched on September 28, 2026, by Minister of State for Planning and Development Coordination, Guylain Nyembo. The census aims to provide updated data for informed public policy planning and development. Nyembo emphasized the importance of accurate data for addressing demographic realities and population needs.
Minister Nyembo highlighted the significance of the census in various sectors, including healthcare, education, and infrastructure. He noted that without accurate data, the government may misallocate resources, citing the example of vaccination programs and school construction. The minister urged all residents to participate in the census, stressing that it is essential for their well-being and access to services. He also emphasized that the census will enable the government to make informed decisions about resource allocation.
The census process is structured into four phases. The first phase involved setting up necessary structures, while the second phase, launched on September 28, focuses on cartographic mapping. The third phase will involve exhaustive enumeration of the population, and the fourth phase will cover data analysis, publication, and dissemination. The government has allocated a budget of $192 million for the process, primarily for personnel and equipment.
The cartographic mapping phase has begun in Kinshasa and will be extended to the remaining 25 provinces by November. Minister Nyembo assured that the process will cover the entire national territory, including areas affected by conflict. He stated that precautions are being taken to ensure the census is conducted successfully, even in challenging areas. The government is working with international partners, including the United Nations, to validate the operation.
According to the current projection, the exhaustive enumeration of the population is scheduled to begin in July 2027, with data analysis and publication planned for the end of 2027. Minister Nyembo emphasized that the census is a long-overdue project, with President Felix Tshisekedi having announced it as a priority during his first term. The government aims to complete the process within a year.
The census is expected to contribute to better decision-making and improved service delivery. Minister Nyembo noted that the availability of reliable and updated data will enable the government to plan policies that address the specific needs of different regions and populations. He encouraged residents to participate actively in the census, stressing that it is essential for their well-being and development.
The government has deployed 155,000 agents for the census, with an additional 130,735 agents planned for the next year. Minister Nyembo assured that all necessary equipment, including tablets, has been procured to facilitate data collection. The government is committed to ensuring the success of the census, which is seen as a critical component of the country's development strategy.
Key points
- The Democratic Republic of Congo has launched its second General Population and Housing Census (RGPH-2) to gather updated data for better public policy planning and development.
- The census process is structured into four phases and is expected to be completed within a year.
- The government has allocated a budget of $192 million for the census, primarily for personnel and equipment.
