# Sierra Leone 2026 digital census preparations

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/sierra-leone-2026-digital-census-preparations
> Updated: 2026-10-12T17:08:36.000Z. Sources: 3. Developments: 2.

Statistics Sierra Leone (Stats SL) is preparing for a fully digital 2026 Population and Housing Census scheduled for December. To support the national enumeration, the government has funded the procurement of 25,000 tablets, power banks, and protective cases, bringing the total number of devices to 29,000 following an initial batch used for cartographic mapping.

The transition to digital data collection is intended to increase efficiency and accuracy by using built-in validation features to reduce manual entry errors. As of October 2026, the agency has entered a 50-day countdown to Census Night on December 1, 2026. Preparatory milestones completed include cartographic mapping, a pilot census, and a mock census conducted in July 2026.

## Timeline

### 2026-10-12: Sierra Leone begins 50-day countdown to 2026 digital census

Sierra Leone has launched a 50-day countdown to its 2026 digital census, supported by the arrival of 25,000 electronic tablets to ensure accurate and efficient national data collection.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/sierra-leone-begins-50-day-countdown-to-2026-digital-census

### 2026-10-07: Statistics Sierra Leone receives 25,000 tablets for 2026 digital census

Statistics Sierra Leone has received 25,000 tablets and accessories to facilitate a fully digital 2026 Population and Housing Census scheduled for December.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/statistics-sierra-leone-receives-25000-tablets-for-2026-digital-census

---
Cite as: Sierra Leone 2026 digital census preparations. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/sierra-leone-2026-digital-census-preparations