Census in DRC: UN commends Parliament’s allocation of USD 30 million

Kinshasa, March 24^th, 2026 (CPA) .-  The historic decision by the Congolese Parliament to allocate USD 30 million for the second general census in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) was commended Tuesday by Diène Keita during her address before the National Assembly in Kinshasa. “I would like to congratulate this Parliament for the exceptional leadership you have demonstrated in promoting key national reforms, including the Family Code, the gradual implementation of universal health coverage, and a series of laws adopted in 2022 in favor of conflict victims, particularly survivors of sexual violence. I also commend you for ratifying the African Union Charter on Statistics, a process supported by United Nations Population Fund, and for encouraging the adoption of a law on statistics. I further welcome your historic decision to allocate USD 30 million to the second general population and housing census,” she stated. She noted that this census will provide policymakers with the demographic data needed to make evidence-based decisions and allocate national resources in an effective, efficient and equitable manner. The UN official added that the second census will also strengthen the confidence of international partners and investors. “International financial institutions such as the World Bank, the African Development Bank and the International Monetary Fund rely on reliable data to guide billions of dollars in investments. When based on accurate and high-quality data, these investments can transform lives and communities,” she said. She further emphasized the key role of lawmakers in ensuring the success of the census process, particularly through sustainable funding, oversight, public trust, and the effective use of census data in shaping policies in sectors such as health, education, gender equality and youth employment. The UNFPA remains a key partner of the Congolese government in social and demographic development, supporting health systems, protection of women and youth, and humanitarian actions.