Buganda Kingdom has rallied its people to actively participate in the upcoming National Population and Housing Census slated for May 10, 2024.
Buganda’s premier, Charles Peter Mayiga said building a stronger kingdom requires planning based on accurate data.
“That’s why it’s very important that we partner with an agency mandated by the state, UBOS, to provide national statistics,” said Mayiga.
The Katikkiro made the remarks on Tuesday during a meeting with Uganda Bureau of Statistics (UBOS) Executive Director, Dr. Chris Mukiza at Bulange Mengo.
He praised the outcomes of the previous census conducted with UBOS, stating, “The Manya Esazza Lyo publication allowed us to identify areas with the most need for improved sanitation facilities.”
Mayiga pledged the Kingdom’s support and participation in the census.
During the meeting, Mukiza highlighted the importance of the census, stating, “We want to know how many people are in the country, what their living conditions are, and what assets they possess. This data will help us plan for better service delivery, from healthcare to education.”
The census will take place on May 10, 2024, with the reference night being May 9.
Dr. Mukiza emphasised that everyone who sleeps in Uganda that night will be counted. He also announced a ten-day buffer period to ensure everyone is reached.
“We are now 86% ready, and we are remaining with one month until the census. We are taking advantage of anything, any information that is possibly accessible,” said Mukiza.
Mayiga also highlighted the Kingdom’s ongoing fight against HIV/AIDS.
“The Kabaka is the champion in these fights; by 2030, AIDS will be history,” said Mayiga.
“I thank you, UBOS, for buying Kabaka’s birthday-run kit, worth Shs 5 million, for the fight against HIV/AIDS. Like we’ve said so many times, everyone of us has been affected, directly or indirectly, by the scourge of HIV.”
