DR Congo Launches Campaign for Second National Census

The Minister of State for Planning and Coordination of Development Assistance, Guylain Nyembo Mbwizya, launched the awareness campaign for the second General Census of Population and Housing (RGPH2) in Kenge, Kwango province, on November 12, 2026. The ceremony was attended by the President of the Provincial Assembly, Tite Munda, Governor Willy Bitwisila, provincial deputies, government officials, territory administrators, traditional leaders, and local residents.

In his welcome speech, Governor Willy Bitwisila praised the initiative of President Félix-Antoine Tshisekedi, noting that the census will enable better orientation of public policies. He assured that his government will support the process and called on authorities and residents to take ownership of it. The governor's support was echoed by the Minister of State, who emphasized that the census is a scientific operation without political bias, concerning all residents, Congolese and foreigners alike.

Guylain Nyembo highlighted the importance of the census for research and coordination of development assistance, while ensuring that personal data collected will remain confidential. He also stressed that the census will provide valuable information for the planning and implementation of development projects. The national coordinator of the Central Bureau of Census, Henri Marie Kazadi Mutombo, presented the current state of progress of the RGPH2.

Discussions with participants focused on access to territories, which is made difficult by the state of the roads, and the recruitment of agents. Several speakers requested that local skills be prioritized, given their knowledge of the terrain. The Minister of State assured that the concerns expressed are being taken into account and reaffirmed the government's determination to carry out the census for the benefit of the country.

The awareness campaign aims to educate the population about the importance of the census and encourage their participation. The government has urged local authorities to support the process and ensure its success. The second general census of population and housing is expected to provide accurate and up-to-date information on the country's population, which will inform development policies and planning.

The launch of the awareness campaign in Kenge marks the beginning of a nationwide effort to raise awareness about the census. The government has called on all stakeholders, including local leaders, civil society organizations, and the general public, to support the census and ensure its success. The census is expected to be a crucial tool for the development of the country, enabling the government to make informed decisions about resource allocation and development priorities.

Key points

• The DR Congo government has launched a campaign to raise awareness about the second general census of population and housing, which aims to provide accurate and up-to-date information on the country's population.