Statistics Sierra Leone (Stats SL), in collaboration with the Ministry of Health and with support from ICF, has commenced a three-week training programme for the 2026 Demographic and Health Survey (DHS).
The training, being held at the Theresa Sesay Hall on Kennedy Street in Freetown, is aimed at preparing field personnel for the pre-testing phase of the nationwide survey.
Speaking at the opening ceremony, Director of Demographic, Health and Social Statistics at Stats SL, Mohamed Koblo Kamara, described the DHS as one of Sierra Leone’s most important national surveys. He said the survey provides vital information on maternal and child health, nutrition, fertility, and other key development indicators.
Kamara urged participants to actively engage in the training and maintain high standards to ensure the collection of quality data.
Representing ICF, Hanna Useem reaffirmed the organization’s commitment to supporting Statistics Sierra Leone throughout the survey process and commended the institution for its efforts in producing reliable statistics.
Nelson Fofanah of the Ministry of Health highlighted the importance of the survey in assessing healthcare interventions, identifying service delivery gaps, and supporting evidence-based decision-making.
Officially opening the training, Statistician-General and Chief Executive Officer of Stats SL, Andrew Bob Johnny, emphasized the importance of the survey in guiding national health policies and development programmes.
He encouraged participants to remain focused and professional throughout the training, noting that the success of the survey depends on the quality of the data collected. The Demographic and Health Survey is a nationally representative survey that gathers information on population, health, nutrition, fertility, and mortality. Its findings help government and development partners plan and implement programmes aimed at improving the well-being of citizens
