By Lawrence Williams

The government has appealed to international development partners to help close an $11.5 million funding gap for the country’s upcoming national census in December.

Speaking to foreign diplomats, bilateral, and multilateral partners at a well-attended presidential Development Partners Committee (DEPAC) meeting on Thursday, President Julius Maada Bio outlined the financial commitments required from both government and partners to enable a smooth conduct of the exercise.

The census is estimated to cost around $37 million, and the government has committed to provide $24 million of that amount, with $15 million (roughly 62%) already disbursed.

“Census Night remains fixed for 1 December 2026,” Bio said. “The Government must fulfill its obligation, and I call on our partners to help close the remaining gap.”

Partners have committed approximately $1.5 million, leaving a financing gap of $11.5 million, alongside the outstanding balance of the government’s commitment.

Bio talked partners through the importance of the exercise, saying that reliable demographic data is critical for development planning, resource allocation, and public service delivery. 

Moreover, an electoral commission official had earlier this week told the local press that the census data could also prove critical for redrawing constituency boundaries ahead of the October 2028 general elections.

Bio emphasised the urgency of the situation, saying that addressing the existing funding gap will help deliver a credible exercise.

“The decision required today is an urgent financing and disbursement plan that protects the timetable and credibility of the Census,” he concluded.