Prime Minister Nabbanja Applauds UBOS for Timely Release of 2024 Census Report

Uganda’s Prime Minister, Rt. Hon. Robinah Nabbanja, commended the Uganda Bureau of Statistics (UBOS) for the timely release of the 2024 National Population and Housing Census (NPHC) dissemination report. Speaking at the official launch held at the Kampala Serena Hotel, Nabbanja emphasized the critical role of census data in shaping the country’s development agenda.

The Prime Minister recalled that President Museveni had inaugurated the Census roadmap on December 12, 2023, at Kololo Independence Grounds, where he emphasized the importance of understanding Uganda’s population dynamics. The census seeks to answer key questions about the number of Ugandans, their living conditions, assets, and access to government services.

During her address, Nabbanja expressed her gratitude to UBOS for delivering the final census report ahead of schedule, fulfilling the promise made by the Census Commissioner in June 2024. “This report answers vital questions and provides a comprehensive picture of Uganda’s population, which will guide the nation’s development policies,” she said.

Nabbanja also praised the various committees and stakeholders involved in the census preparations and extended her thanks to Ugandans for participating in the data collection process. She highlighted the importance of census data in helping the government assess its progress and plan future actions.

The 2024 census reveals that Uganda’s population has grown to 45.9 million, including over one million refugees. This marks an increase of over 10 million people since the 2014 census. Nabbanja attributed the population growth to improved healthcare services, such as expanded immunization programs and the establishment of health centers across the country.

The Prime Minister emphasized that the census data would help the government refine programs like the Parish Development Model, ensuring that the country’s most vulnerable citizens benefit. She called on all government officials and stakeholders to use the data to improve service delivery.

Nabbanja also noted the importance of analyzing demographic indicators such as life expectancy, fertility rates, and household welfare, as these figures will help Uganda achieve its Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). She encouraged policymakers to use the statistics to optimize Uganda’s growing population as a market for locally produced goods and services.

In conclusion, Nabbanja urged UBOS to ensure that the report is widely distributed and used to inform planning and development across all sectors. She officially declared the 2024 Census final report as received by the government.

Key Findings:

• Uganda’s population stands at 45.9 million, with 21.6 million males and 24.3 million females.
• Literacy rates are at 74%.
• The fertility rate is 4.5%, and life expectancy at birth is 68.5 years.
• The unemployment rate is 12.6%.
• 80% of Ugandans identify as Christians, with Catholics comprising 37.4% of the population, followed by Anglicans at 30% and Pentecostals at 14.7%.
• Children (0-17 years) make up 50% of the population, while youth (18-30 years) account for 23.5%, and older persons constitute 5%.
• The number of households in Uganda is 10.7 million.