Gambiaj.com – (BANJUL, The Gambia) – In a significant step towards getting factual data about the demographic dynamics in The Gambia, President Adama Barrow launched the 2024 National Census by participating in a census interview conducted by the Gambia Bureau of Statistics (GBOS). This decennial event marks a crucial effort to gather accurate population and housing data, essential for the country’s planning and development.

During the interview with the GBOS team, led by Statistician General Mr. Nyakasi Sanyang, President Barrow emphasized the importance of the census in shaping the nation’s future. “Counting plays a critical role in guiding planning, program implementation, policy formulation, and monitoring development progress in line with the National Development Plans,” he stated. He further highlighted the significance of data in decentralization, noting, “Data is important in decentralization because it guides the Government in every aspect of decentralization.”

President Barrow called on all Gambians to support the census process and ensure they are counted. “I call on all Gambians to be supportive and get counted,” he urged, recognizing the vital role of enumerators in obtaining accurate data.

The President also expressed his gratitude to the GBOS management and staff for their dedication to ensuring the successful conduct of census activities. The 2024 census will be the first in The Gambia to utilize digital recording, a move expected to enhance the accuracy and timeliness of the statistics produced.

“The Gambia is reaping the benefits of digitalization,” President Barrow remarked, highlighting that digital tools will streamline data collection and processing for the 2024 Population and Housing Census.

This digital census initiative reflects The Gambia’s commitment to embracing modern technology to improve its statistical systems, ultimately supporting better governance and more effective development planning.