After a 42‑year hiatus, the Democratic Republic of Congo is launching its first national census, aiming to give millions their long‑awaited official identity. The move is poised to reshape public planning and national cohesion.

Key Takeaways

  • DR Congo initiates its first census since 1984.
  • Millions lack official identity documents.
  • Digital tools will be used to ensure accuracy.

First Nationwide Count in Decades

In Bunia, the capital of Ituri province, 28‑year‑old Heritier Ramazani told Al Jazeera, "I’ve never been registered in a census since I was born. Having an identity card will make me very happy." His story highlights a broader issue: large segments of the population have never been officially documented.

The previous census took place in 1984 when the country was still called Zaire. Since then, the DRC has endured political turmoil, armed conflict, and rapid population growth. The World Bank estimates the current population at about 112 million, with an annual growth rate of roughly 3.2 %.

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Why This Matters

BozokMedia analysis shows that reliable census data will empower the government to allocate resources more effectively, improve public services, and strengthen national unity in a country long‑scarred by conflict.

"Accurate census data is the backbone of development planning," says an international demography expert.

Digital Mapping and Logistical Hurdles

Technical coordinator of the Central Census Office, Henri Marie Kazadi, explained that teams will use tablets and smartphones to first map every inhabited location before household surveys begin. Covering more than 2.3 million square kilometres, the task is daunting due to poor roads, limited infrastructure, and ongoing insecurity.

Filimbi activist Muyisa Hangi Christophe warned that massive displacement could keep many people off the count. "State authority is not effectively established across the whole national territory," he told Al Jazeera.

Did You Know?: Over 65 % of the DRC’s population is under 25, underscoring the need for youth‑focused policies.

Frequently Asked Questions

Question 1: Will the census cover every region of the country?

Answer: Teams aim to reach remote areas through digital mapping, but security constraints may limit coverage in some zones.

Question 2: When will the census results be released?

Answer: Preliminary data will be compiled after fieldwork, with the final report expected by mid‑2027.