DRC Highlights Population Census as Cornerstone of Data-Driven Development on World

Kinshasa, July 11, 2026 - The Democratic Republic of Congo has reaffirmed its commitment to evidence-based development planning, with the Second General Population and Housing Census (RGPH-2) positioned as a central pillar of the government's strategy to improve public policy and resource allocation. Marking World Population Day, celebrated annually on July 11, Minister of State for Planning and Coordination of Development Aid, Guylain Nyembo, emphasized the importance of reliable demographic data in shaping policies that respond to the needs of the country's growing population, particularly its youth. This year's global theme, "Realizing the hopes and aspirations of young people, today and for the future," served as the backdrop for the government's message, which highlighted the role of young people as a driving force for the country's economic and social transformation. Nyembo described the Congolese population as one of the nation's greatest assets, stressing that the country's demographic strength extends beyond its vast territory and abundant natural resources. He also paid tribute to young people affected by the ongoing conflict in eastern DRC, including displaced persons, students whose education has been disrupted, and victims of violence. The minister underscored that effective development planning depends on accurate demographic information, describing the RGPH-2 as a strategic tool that will provide a clearer picture of the country's population distribution, social needs, and development priorities. According to the government, the census will enable authorities to better target investments in essential sectors such as education, healthcare, housing, water, sanitation, energy, and transport infrastructure by ensuring that public resources are allocated where they are needed most. The initiative forms part of the government's broader objective of promoting inclusive development and ensuring that women, young people, children, persons with disabilities, and both rural and urban communities are fully reflected in national development policies. With a population estimated at more than 100 million, the government views the country's demographic profile as a major opportunity for economic growth. Officials argue that realizing this demographic dividend will require sustained investment in education, healthcare, vocational training, employment, entrepreneurship, innovation, and civic participation. The government also pointed to recent demographic and health data indicating that people under the age of 18 account for 56 percent of the national population, highlighting the need for continued investment in youth-focused policies addressing education, employment, nutrition, and reproductive health. These priorities are reflected in the National Strategic Development Plan, which focuses on strengthening human capital, expanding vocational training, supporting entrepreneurship, promoting innovation, and encouraging greater youth participation in public life. Among the flagship initiatives highlighted was the "Stand Up, Young Congolese" presidential program, which aims to provide vocational training, financial support for youth-led businesses, and internship opportunities to improve employment prospects and reduce poverty. The implementation of RGPH-2 continues to advance, with authorities confirming that nationwide census operations are scheduled to begin in July 2027. Once completed, the exercise will represent the Democratic Republic of Congo's first comprehensive population census since 1984, providing the country with updated demographic data after more than four decades. Government officials consider the census a critical milestone for strengthening national planning and ensuring that future development policies are guided by reliable statistical evidence.