Bissau, 10^th February 2025 – The government of Guinea-Bissau has officially launched the pre-census cartography phase of its 4th General Population and Housing Census (RGPH 4) with UNFPA support, marking a significant milestone in the country’s efforts to gather updated and accurate demographic data. The initiative, also backed by the World Bank and other international partners, aims to modernize the census process through digital technology and regional collaboration.

Guinea-Bissau has not conducted a national census since 2009, leaving a critical gap in the country’s demographic and socio-economic data. This census is expected to provide vital information to inform public policies, such as the allocation of resources for maternal health services, the development of urban infrastructure in rapidly growing areas, and the implementation of targeted social programs to address poverty and inequality. By adopting a fully digital approach, the country is leveraging technology to ensure greater accuracy and efficiency in data collection.

The pre-census cartography phase is a crucial step in the census process, as it involves updating and refining maps to accurately locate households and infrastructure across the country. This will facilitate the proper division of the territory into enumeration areas, ensuring comprehensive coverage and preventing duplications or omissions.

South-south collaboration enhances census implementation

A key highlight of this initiative is the South-South cooperation that has facilitated the exchange of expertise and resources between Guinea-Bissau and neighbouring countries. UNFPA has played a pivotal role in this partnership by enabling the use of tablets from Senegal and providing technical training to field workers, equipping them with the necessary skills to implement the digital census process.

UNFPA Regional Director Dr. Sennen Hounton attended the launch event and delivered a speech emphasizing the importance of accurate demographic data for policymaking and development planning.

“We reaffirm UNFPA’s commitment to working together with the World Bank and other partners to support this process until its completion,” said Dr. Hounton. “Through this collaboration, Guinea-Bissau will have an improved geospatial database, detailed digital maps, and better knowledge of its population distribution, which are essential for research, urban planning, and social policies.”

Over 200 field agents, including supervisors, information and communication technology (ICT) specialists, and cartographic officers, have been deployed across the country. Their work, which will take place from March to June 2025, is expected to yield an enhanced geospatial database, detailed digital maps, and a precise understanding of population distribution.

UNFPA’s commitment to supporting the census

As a key partner in the census process, UNFPA has provided technical assistance and logistical support to ensure the successful execution of RGPH 4. This includes the procurement of high-quality equipment and materials, as well as contributions to communication and public awareness campaigns to encourage full participation in the census.

With the commitment of the government, international partners, and local stakeholders, Guinea-Bissau is positioning itself to conduct a comprehensive, precise, and modern census. The data collected will be instrumental in shaping policies and programs that address the needs of the population and promote sustainable development.

Guinea-Bissau's long-awaited IV General Population and Housing Census will commence enumeration in September 2025.  This critical undertaking will provide a comprehensive snapshot of the nation's demographics, housing conditions, and socio-economic characteristics.  The data collected will be instrumental in informing government policy, resource allocation, and development planning for years to come.  Preparations are underway to ensure a successful and inclusive census process across the country.

The success of this census depends on the collective efforts of all involved, from authorities and field agents to the general public, who play a crucial role in ensuring accurate data collection. With continued collaboration and commitment, Guinea-Bissau is taking an important step toward strengthening its statistical capacity and improving the lives of its people.