DRC prepares for historic population census in 2027

The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has taken a decisive step toward conducting its first population census in over four decades, with the official launch of agent recruitment for census mapping operations. This critical phase precedes the main population count scheduled for July 2027, marking a pivotal moment in the country’s demographic governance.

Why this census matters

Guylain Nyembo Mbwizya, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Planning and Development Coordination, emphasized the census’s vital role in national development planning. Speaking at the recruitment launch press conference, he noted that reliable, up-to-date demographic data is essential for effective governance. The last official census in the DRC was conducted in 1984, while the United Nations recommends conducting such operations every decade.

The upcoming census promises to provide accurate population statistics across the entire national territory, enabling better resource allocation, infrastructure planning, and policy formulation. “This operation will significantly enhance our precision in planning and improve how we serve our people,” Minister Nyembo stated. “Today, we confirm that the census has always been a priority. We’ve simply been working to create the necessary conditions, which we’ve now achieved.”

Recruitment details and key positions

The government is seeking qualified professionals including:

• Training of trainers to educate field agents
• Cartography operators for precise geographic delineation
• Geographic Information Systems (GIS) specialists
• ICT assistants for data management

These agents will be responsible for creating accurate census mapping before the main population count begins. The minister stressed that the selection process will prioritize competence and merit, with applications accepted until June 7, 2026, through the dedicated portal at recrutement.rgph.cd.

Ensuring integrity and national participation

Minister Nyembo reassured the public that the recruitment process will adhere strictly to principles of transparency, meritocracy, and fairness. “No fraud, favoritism, or discrimination will be tolerated,” he declared. “Every candidate will be evaluated based on clearly defined criteria.”

The government views this census as an opportunity to engage local talent, particularly encouraging qualified youth and women to apply. “This operation represents a significant chance for thousands of our citizens to contribute to national development,” Nyembo noted.

Phased implementation across provinces

The census mapping will begin in Kinshasa before expanding to other provinces, ensuring comprehensive national coverage. The minister called for full public engagement with the process, stating, “We need dedicated, disciplined agents who understand the importance of public service. Today’s launch demonstrates our unwavering commitment to seeing this crucial project through to completion.”

The census initiative follows a stakeholders’ roundtable that secured commitments for adequate funding. With an estimated total cost of $192 million, the government continues to seek additional resources through a coordinated funding mechanism to ensure the census’s successful execution.

This census represents not just a demographic exercise but a fulfillment of President Félix Tshisekedi’s campaign promise and a fundamental step toward the DRC’s sustainable development goals.