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Dr Chris Mukiza Executive Director, UBOS
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KAMPALA - The Uganda Bureau of Statistics (UBOS) has responded to public concerns over the recently released 2024 National Population and Housing Census Provisional Report, which has sparked criticism over discrepancies in population figures for the Acholi and Bagisu ethnic groups. Citizens and stakeholders have raised questions regarding the reported decline in these populations compared to the 2014 census, leading to doubts about the report's credibility.
The controversy emerged shortly after UBOS published the provisional results on October 3, 2024. According to these figures, the population of the Acholi and Bagisu had decreased since the 2014 census, a finding that contradicted the expected growth trend. This triggered reactions from the public, with some individuals speculating that the reduction in population numbers for these tribes was intentional. Social media users even suggested that the census results were manipulated to marginalize the two groups.
In response, UBOS released an official statement reassuring the public that the 2024 census figures are accurate and reliable. The Bureau emphasized that the integrity of both the 2014 and 2024 census data is robust and meets international statistical standards.
UBOS statement that was realeased on their X handle
"The 2014 census figures, published in March 2016, are correct, and the data integrity of the 2024 census is of high quality. The provisional report misreported figures for the Acholi, Bagisu, Bakiga, and Lango tribes when comparing 2014 and 2024 tribal data, but this error has been corrected," said Dr Chris Mukiza, Executive Director UBOS.
UBOS also clarified that the provisional report is part of a three-tiered approach to data dissemination. The Bureau released preliminary results in June 2024, which provided a general overview of population distribution. The provisional report, published in October, offers more detailed data on population distribution, economic indicators, and other demographic information. A final report, which will include comprehensive statistical data, is set to be released in December 2024.
UBOS stated that all religious groups saw an increase in their followers between 2014 and 2024, though the share of some religions in relation to the total population had decreased.
In line with international standards, UBOS has launched a post-enumeration survey to validate the results of the 2024 census. An independent team of experts will review the data to ensure its accuracy, with findings expected to be included in the final report.
Despite UBOS's assurances, some citizens continue to express dissatisfaction with the census process. Complaints have surfaced that certain enumerators from Buganda region and other areas have not yet been paid for their work, and some individuals claim they were never counted. These issues have fueled skepticism about the census results.
UBOS, however, remains confident in the data's reliability and urges citizens to trust the process, citing the use of internationally recognized methodologies.
The final report, due in December 2024, is expected to provide further clarity and resolve lingering concerns, according to Chris N. Mukiza, Executive Director / Census Commissioner
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