This archive report was first published on 12 August 2019.
The national census, conducted every ten years, is a crucial exercise that provides vital data for the country's development. The last census was held in 2009, and the next one is set to take place in the last week of August.
According to the acting Cabinet Secretary for National Treasury, Ukur Yatani, the census will be conducted electronically for the first time, unlike in the past where it was done manually. This will enable the final outcome to be announced within three months of the operation.
Speaking during a media briefing, Ukur Yatani assured Kenyans of their safety during the national exercise, stating, "The census officers will be accompanied by village elders or resident association leaders, known to the household members for purposes of comfort setting."
With 129,123 enumeration areas established, each accommodating an average of 100 households, the census will be conducted by 35,000 enumerators, 27,000 content supervisors, and 2,700 IT supervisors. Additionally, Resident Association leaders, Village elders, and security officers will be part of the exercise.
The government has allocated KSh18.5 billion for the national activity, which will capture key details such as age, sex, religion, ethnicity, level of education, disability status, immigration status, and the number of children.
However, many Kenyans have expressed concern on social media that they lack information about the crucial exercise. In response, Ambassador Ukur Yatani announced that the government will conduct intensive campaigns to sensitize Kenyans about the important national activity.
