DR Congo’s To Conduct First Population Count In 40 Years

More than four decades after its last official population count, the Democratic Republic of Congo is preparing for a landmark national census, an ambitious effort that could redefine governance, development planning, and political representation in one of Africa’s largest and most complex nations.

The last census in the Democratic Republic of Congo was conducted in 1984, when the population stood at roughly 30 million. Today, that figure is estimated to have surged past 110 million, reflecting decades of high birth rates, urban migration, and prolonged instability.

Recognizing the urgency of the situation, President Félix Tshisekedi has elevated the census to a national priority. Speaking at a high-level donor roundtable in Kinshasa, he emphasized that governing without accurate data is akin to “governing without visibility.” His administration is now rallying international partners and financial institutions to support the initiative, which is expected to cost around $192 million.

Encouragingly, early signs suggest strong backing for the project. Pledges from donors have already reached approximately $210 million, surpassing the estimated budget.  These funds will not only finance the census itself but also strengthen the country’s National Statistics Institute and support related processes, including electoral planning. This broader investment underscores the census’s significance beyond mere data collection; it is seen as a foundational step toward institutional reform and improved governance.

The census process is expected to begin with a mapping phase as early as July 2026, laying the groundwork for a comprehensive count of the population and housing conditions across the country.