For decades, the Government of Congo has emphasized a developmental strategy rooted in accountability and supported by robust monitoring and evaluation systems. These systems rely heavily on reliable, current statistics about the population’s demographic, economic, and socio-cultural characteristics. The fifth general census of the population and housing (RGPH-5), established by Decree No. 2019-130 on May 17, 2019, underscores this commitment by providing essential data to guide the national development plan (PND) 2022–2026.
The RGPH-5 aligns with the African Union’s Agenda 2063 and the United Nations’ Agenda 2030, offering insights to measure the progress toward the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
The RGPH-5 is more than a census; it is a cornerstone for Congo’s sustainable development. Its data will drive informed decision-making, empower local governance, and align national policies with international goals. With the continued collaboration of stakeholders, the final results promise to illuminate pathways for equitable and inclusive growth.
The Objectives of RGPH-5
1. Monitoring National Priorities
The RGPH-5 provides crucial data to evaluate the national development plan’s milestones, ensuring policies align with national priorities and socio-economic goals.
2. Tracking Regional and Global Aspirations
By dovetailing with broader objectives like Agenda 2063 and the SDGs, the RGPH-5 positions Congo to benchmark its progress against continental and global development frameworks.
3. Supporting Decentralization and Local Development
The census highlights population distribution at national and departmental levels, empowering policymakers to implement targeted, effective local governance strategies.
Key Phases of RGPH-5 Execution
1. Census Mapping (March 4 – August 30, 2020)
This foundational phase involved geographically delineating enumeration areas, ensuring comprehensive coverage of the country’s diverse regions.
2. Main Enumeration (April 25 – June 5, 2023)
This stage marked the actual collection of demographic, economic, and socio-cultural data. Extensive participation and rigorous methodologies ensured accuracy.
3. Post-Census Survey (September 10 – October 9, 2023)
Designed to validate the collected data, this survey offered additional quality assurance for the preliminary findings.
Preliminary Results: A Glimpse into Congo’s Demographics
The preliminary results published on December 29, 2023, provide insights into:
- Population Size and Distribution: Detailed data on the number of people across various localities.
- Age and Gender Structure: Key statistics enabling gender-responsive and age-specific policymaking.
Significance of RGPH-5 Data
1. Public Policy Formulation
Accurate census data underpins effective policy development, especially in health, education, and infrastructure.
2. Economic Planning
Demographic insights drive resource allocation, investment planning, and economic growth strategies.
3. Social Equity
By identifying population disparities, the census promotes equitable access to resources and services.
Partnerships and Support
The RGPH-5 benefited from:
- Technical Expertise: Provided by the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA).
- Financial Assistance: Secured from the World Bank, demonstrating international collaboration for sustainable development.
Future Steps: Final Results and Thematic Reports
The RGPH-5 team is now focusing on compiling thematic analysis reports. These documents will provide granular insights into areas such as urbanization, workforce demographics, and socio-cultural trends. The National Institute of Statistics (INS) will spearhead this effort with the continued support of technical and financial partners.
Commendations and Call to Action
The rigorous execution of RGPH-5 reflects the dedication of the INS and its partners. The government has called on the INS to sustain its professionalism and complete the work, reinforcing RGPH-5 as the most comprehensive statistical investigation undertaken by Congo.