Bissau, Guinea-Bissau – 05 June 2025 – Guinea-Bissau has taken a significant stride towards its 4th General Population and Housing Census (RGPH-4) with the successful conclusion of a Pilot Census Evaluation Workshop. Held from June 2nd to 4th in Bissau, this vital gathering brought together national and international experts to meticulously evaluate the recently completed pilot census, which took place from May 5th to 30th.
The primary objective of this intensive three-day workshop was to thoroughly assess the procedures, methodologies, and digital technologies employed during the pilot phase, by identifying good practices and addressing challenges encountered, aimed to draw concrete recommendations that will be meticulously integrated to refine the final preparations for the actual RGPH-4. This strategic evaluation ensures that the forthcoming national census will be as accurate, efficient, and comprehensive as possible.
National Commitment and International Partnership Highlighted
The workshop commenced on June 2nd with an opening ceremony that underscored the robust national commitment and the crucial international partnerships driving this monumental undertaking. Mr. Roberto Vieira, President of the National Institute of Statistics of Guinea-Bissau (INE), and Dr. Zalha Assoumana, UNFPA Guinea-Bissau Representative, jointly presided over the ceremony.
"The pilot census was a critical step in ensuring the accuracy and efficiency of our upcoming General Population and Housing Census," stated Mr. Vieira. "This evaluation workshop has provided invaluable insights, allowing us to fine-tune our approach and ensure that the RGPH-4 will be a robust and reliable source of data for national development."
Dr. Assoumana echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the collaborative spirit. "UNFPA is proud to partner with the Government of Guinea-Bissau on this transformative census. The rigorous evaluation conducted during this workshop is testament to our collective dedication to international best practices and to delivering a census that truly leaves no one behind." Before continuing "Our continued support for Guinea-Bissau's digital census is a testament to our belief in its potential to inform critical investments in health, education, and infrastructure, ultimately improving the lives of all Bissau-Guineans."
Digital Advancement and Future Planning Take Center Stage
Workshop participants engaged in thorough discussions, scrutinizing every aspect of the pilot phase, this included a detailed review of data collection tools, enumerator training programs, logistical hurdles, and the implementation of digital technologies. The digital nature of the upcoming census, representing a significant advancement for Guinea-Bissau, was a key focus, with discussions centered on optimizing tablet use and ensuring seamless data flow.
The closing ceremony on June 4th saw the continued strong support from key development partners, with Mr. Roberto Vieira and Dr. Zalha Assoumana joined by Ms. Rosa Brito, the World Bank Representative in Guinea-Bissau.
"The World Bank recognizes the profound impact that accurate and timely demographic data has on evidence-based policymaking and sustainable development," remarked Ms. Brito.
The recommendations derived from this evaluation workshop are crucial for refining the final preparations for the 4th General Population and Housing Census, which is anticipated to commence later this year. The successful completion of this pilot evaluation marks a significant milestone, bringing Guinea-Bissau closer to obtaining comprehensive and up-to-date demographic data essential for its national development agenda.
The RGPH-4 is a crucial undertaking that will provide up-to-date demographic, social, and economic information about the population and households across Guinea-Bissau. This comprehensive data will be vital for effective policy formulation, resource allocation, and monitoring of national development goals, ultimately contributing to a more prosperous and equitable future for all Guinean citizens.
