Democratic Republic of the Congo begins census mapping phase

The Democratic Republic of the Congo has launched the preparatory mapping phase for its second General Population and Housing Census (RGPH-2). This operation marks the first comprehensive census in the country in over 40 years, following the last one conducted in 1984.

In Kinshasa, specifically within the N'Djili commune, census mapping teams have reported a generally favorable reception from local residents. Local authorities and field supervisors noted that the involvement of local agents has helped build trust and clarify the purpose of the operation. While some security challenges persist in certain neighborhoods, the mapping process is intended to collect essential data to prepare for the full census scheduled for 2027.

Guylain Nyembo Mbwizya, the Minister of Planning and Development Coordination, stated that the census is vital for local development planning. The government aims to deploy over 130,000 enumerators nationwide to conduct an exhaustive household-by-household count. While UN estimates place the population at approximately 112 million, the official census aims to provide an exact figure to assist in planning infrastructure, such as schools and healthcare services.