Burundi's Prime Minister and President of the National Census Orientation Committee (CNOR), Nestor Ntahontuye, met with committee members on Wednesday, May 13, 2026. The meeting aimed to finalize preparations for the upcoming release of the country's definitive census results. This gathering marks a key step in the process of presenting full demographic, housing, agriculture, and livestock data, which is expected to include new indicators. The discussions focused on ensuring the accuracy and completeness of the data before its official publication.
Census Scope and Innovations
Burundi conducted two main operations during the Recensement Général de la Population, de l’Habitat, de l’Agriculture et de l’Élevage (RGHAE): the general census of population and housing, and the census of agriculture and livestock. This marks the first occasion Burundi has undertaken a dedicated census of its agriculture and livestock sectors. The population and housing census, conversely, is now in its fourth iteration within the country. Data collection for the module focusing on agricultural exploitations has recently concluded. Following this, the component dedicated to livestock will be the next to be finalized and processed.
Timeline and National Alignment
Data processing for the Recensement Général de la Population, de l’Habitat, de l’Agriculture et de l’Élevage (RGHAE) has introduced innovations, notably the integration of priority indicators that align with the National Vision and the Sustainable Development Goals. Burundi is one of several nations to have conducted a general census during the international phase, which commenced in 2015 and is slated to conclude at the end of 2024. Census activities for the RGHAE are scheduled to continue through December 2027, indicating a phased approach to data collection and processing. This extended timeline allows for the thorough compilation and analysis of demographic, housing, agricultural, and livestock information across the country. The inclusion of new indicators is intended to provide a more full statistical overview for national planning.
Publication and Future Steps
The meeting focused on examining the draft decree for publishing definitive results and evaluating the overall progress of the Recensement Général de la Population, de l’Habitat, de l’Agriculture et de l’Élevage (RGHAE) activities. This discussion is a critical step towards the official release of the full census data. The draft decree outlines the legal framework for the publication, ensuring that the definitive results are presented in accordance with national regulations. Evaluating the RGHAE's progress helps confirm the readiness and accuracy of the collected demographic, housing, agricultural, and livestock information before its public dissemination.
Significance of the Data
The forthcoming definitive census results from Burundi are expected to provide a full statistical overview vital for national planning and development initiatives. The inclusion of new indicators, alongside traditional demographic and housing data, will offer a more nuanced understanding of the country's population, agricultural practices, and livestock sectors. This data, compiled by entities such as the Bureau Central de Recensement (BCR) under the guidance of the Comité National d’Orientation du Recensement Général de la Population, de l’Habitat, de l’Agriculture et de l’Élevage (CNOR), is key for aligning national strategies with current realities and global development goals. The information will inform policy-making across various governmental sectors.