Authorities secure funding pledges as country moves to update population data for the first time since 1984

The Democratic Republic of the Congo is preparing to conduct its first national census in more than four decades, marking a significant step toward improving data for governance and development planning.

Officials in the capital, Kinshasa, recently convened a roundtable with international donors to mobilise financial support for the large scale population and housing census. The meeting resulted in pledges totaling nearly $210 million surpassing the estimated budget of $192 million required to carry out the operation.

According to authorities, part of the funding will also be directed toward strengthening the National Statistics Institute and supporting the country’s electoral processes, highlighting the broader importance of accurate demographic data.

The first phase of the census, which involves nationwide mapping, is expected to begin as early as July 2026. This preparatory stage will lay the groundwork for the full enumeration process.

The DRC last conducted a national census in 1984, when the population was estimated at around 30 million. Today, the population is believed to have grown to over 110 million, making it one of Africa’s most populous nations.

Accurate census data is critical for effective policy making, resource allocation, and electoral planning, particularly in a country as vast and diverse as the DRC.

As preparations advance, the upcoming census is expected to provide a long-overdue snapshot of the nation’s demographic landscape, supporting development efforts and governance for years to come.