The Ugandan government has launched a nationwide housing and population census, aimed at gathering crucial data to inform development planning and policy decisions. The exercise, which commenced on May 10th, will run until May 20th, according to authorities.
“The National Housing and Population Census is a critical exercise that will provide us with accurate data on our population, housing, and living standards,” said Dr. Chris Mukiza, Director General of the Uganda Bureau of Statistics (UBOS). “This information will be vital in guiding our development priorities and ensuring that our policies are evidence-based.”
The census will cover all households and institutions in Uganda, with a focus on gathering data on population size, structure, and distribution, as well as housing conditions, access to basic services, and socio-economic characteristics.
“We urge all Ugandans to cooperate with our enumerators and provide accurate information to ensure the success of this exercise,” said Minister of State for Finance, Planning and Economic Development, Hon. Amos Lugoloobi. “The data collected will be used to improve our planning and resource allocation, ultimately leading to better services and improved living standards for all citizens.”
This is being conducted by the Uganda Bureau of Statistics, in collaboration with the Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development, and other government agencies.
“We are committed to ensuring a successful and accurate census, and we appreciate the support of our development partners and stakeholders,” said Dr. Mukiza.
The results of the census are expected to be released in the coming months, and will provide a comprehensive picture of Uganda’s population and housing landscape.
Over the years, Ugandan population continues to have an almost double growth in it’s population. In 1800, Uganda’s population was only at 2 million people.
After Uganda’s independence from the British Empire in1962, the population started growing rapidly and later slowed down 1979, at the time of the Ugandan-Tanzanian War coupled with president Idi Amin’s rule.
As of January 2024, Global Digital Insights placed Uganda’s populations at 49,924,252, a 2.76% increase from 2023. In 2023, it was at 48,582,334, a 2.82% increase from 2022.
Uganda carries out the census after every 10 years. The last census was conducted in 2014, and next will be conducted in May 2034.
Uganda’s Population Census over the years
2014 – 34,856, 813
2002 – 24,227,297
1991 – 16,671,705
1980 – 12,636,179
1969 – 9, 535, 051