The Government of Sierra Leone has issued a directive suspending all secret society activities across the country, effective November 12, 2026, to facilitate the peaceful conduct of the 2026 Population and Housing Census. This suspension, issued by the Ministry of Local Government and Community Affairs, will remain in force throughout the census exercise and the immediate post-census period, ending on December 31, 2026. The directive aims to protect census personnel, prevent disruptions to enumeration activities, and ensure all eligible residents are available to be counted without restrictions associated with traditional or secret society activities.
The Ministry explained that initiation ceremonies, traditional gatherings, processions, and other related activities could potentially interfere with census operations and create security concerns, including conflicts, intimidation, and misunderstandings within communities. As a result, all Paramount Chiefs, Chiefdom Authorities, and secret society leaders are required to suspend initiation ceremonies and other related activities. No new initiation activities or associated ceremonies are to be organised or conducted during the stipulated period.
The notice further warns that no secret society-related activity should obstruct, threaten, intimidate, or prevent census officials from carrying out their responsibilities. Traditional authorities, including Paramount Chiefs, Section Chiefs, Town Chiefs, and Village Heads, have also been instructed to work closely with security agencies and census authorities to ensure compliance. This collaborative effort aims to maintain peace and order during the census period.
Any disagreements or security concerns arising from the directive are expected to be reported to the appropriate local authorities for peaceful resolution. The Government acknowledges the cultural, traditional, and historical importance of secret societies in Sierra Leonean communities but emphasises that the national importance of the census requires the cooperation of all citizens and traditional institutions.
The Ministry of Local Government and Community Affairs has called on traditional leaders, secret society members, and other community stakeholders to demonstrate patriotism, restraint, and cooperation to ensure the successful completion of the 2026 Population and Housing Census and the collection of accurate population and housing data. This appeal is crucial for the census's success, as it requires the participation and understanding of all sectors of society.
The suspension of secret society activities is a temporary measure aimed at ensuring the census's integrity and accuracy. The Government is working to balance the cultural significance of these activities with the need for a peaceful and efficient census process. By suspending these activities, the Government aims to create a secure environment for census officials to carry out their duties without interference or intimidation.
The 2026 Population and Housing Census is a significant national event, and the Government's efforts to ensure its success are multifaceted. The suspension of secret society activities is one aspect of these efforts, which also include collaboration with traditional authorities, security agencies, and community stakeholders. The Government's goal is to conduct a comprehensive and accurate census that reflects the country's population and housing situation.
Key points
- The Sierra Leone Government has suspended secret society activities during the 2026 Population and Housing Census to ensure peaceful enumeration and accurate data collection.
- The suspension, effective November 12, 2026, will remain in force until December 31, 2026, and applies to all secret society activities, including initiation ceremonies and traditional gatherings.
- The Government has called on traditional leaders and community stakeholders to cooperate with census authorities and security agencies to ensure the successful completion of the census.
