Kampala, Uganda | By Michael Wandati | As Uganda gears up for its sixth National Population Census, scheduled for May 10, 2024, an innovative addition has been made to the data collection process. Individuals will now be required to provide details regarding their clan affiliation, marking a significant shift in census methodology.
The census, slated to commence with a census night on May 9, 2024, aims to comprehensively gather data on various aspects including the population size, welfare indicators, and the efficacy of social service delivery across the nation.
However, what sets this upcoming census apart is its integration of clan affiliation data, a notable inclusion prompted by the cultural leaders, particularly from the Buganda Kingdom.
This pioneering move to include clan affiliation within the census dataset holds substantial significance for cultural leaders. It is viewed as a crucial step towards better understanding the statistical composition of their populace.
Charles Peter Mayiga, the Katikkiro (Prime Minister) of the Buganda Kingdom, underscored the importance of accurate data in facilitating efficient planning and development initiatives.
By incorporating clan affiliation data into the census, Uganda not only advances its census methodology but also acknowledges the cultural diversity and significance of clans within its societal fabric.
This shift promises to yield insights that can inform more targeted and effective policies and programs tailored to the diverse needs of its populace.
Mayiga urged Ugandans to participate fully in the census, assuring them that it is not for taxation purposes.“I want to inform the public that this isn’t about collecting taxes, because this is the greatest fear that ordinary people have, thinking that when they are counted and they are above 18 years, they will be asked where they pay their taxes. I don’t see how the two are related; therefore, I urge people to participate and give the information that UBOS requires,” he explains.
Chris Mukiza, the Chief Executive Officer of the Uganda Bureau of Statistics (UBOS) and the census commissioner, provided updates on the preparations for the upcoming census, stating that UBOS is currently at 86 percent readiness for the census implementation.
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He confirmed that all census inquiries will reference the night of May 9, 2024, with the actual enumeration scheduled for May 10, 2024, which will be observed as a public holiday to facilitate household visits.
Mukiza also highlighted UBOS’s strong collaboration with the Buganda Kingdom, emphasizing their joint efforts on statistical publications such as “Mannya e’Sazza lyo” (Know Your County). Responding to a request from the Buganda Kingdom, UBOS has incorporated clan characteristics into the data collection process.
Mukiza stressed that this addition is not limited to Buganda but is pertinent to numerous communities across the country with clan systems, acknowledging the importance of reflecting cultural diversity in census data.
Furthermore, Mukiza announced UBOS’s involvement in Kabaka’s birthday run and their contribution of census equipment to the Buganda Kingdom statistics office, showcasing their commitment to supporting community initiatives and enhancing statistical capabilities at the local level.
