Population Census in Cameroon: An Important Instrument in National Planning and Development

Author

Ndaneseh Derick Ndenkeh

Abstract

 Census is an indispensable tool for economic transformation, growth and development. Census results inform policy formulation and programme implementation, as well as socio-economic development. Planning for Cameroon’s socio-economic development has been adversely affected by the inadequacy, obsolescence and unreliability of available demographic data. Past national development plans have failed partly because of a lack of demographic data for planning. There is, therefore, a need for an accurate, reliable and acceptable population census for the country, a concern of greater significance given the dynamism of modern socio-economic planning at both micro and macro levels. The April-July 2026 population census in Cameroon has become particularly important for establishing a baseline measurement of indicators required to assess progress toward attaining emergence by 2035. The exercise rests on the notion that clear-cut data sits at the centre of any roadmap that enables planning, implementation and long-term development. Empirical evidence on census informs policy recommendations for national planning and development. This paper recommends that government adopt a robust rolling plan to help determine the accurate population and demography of the country.

Keywords

Population, Census, National Planning, and Development

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