BY GCWALISILE MHLABANE
EZULWINI – The 2027 Population and Housing Census isn’t just meant to count Emaswati; it will cover everyone living in the Kingdom, including non-Emaswati residents who call Eswatini home. This inclusive approach ensures that no one is overlooked as the country plans for its future development.
During Day 1 of the Questionnaire Development Workshop held at Happy Valley Hotel on March 31, 2026, Hanson Dlamini, Deputy Census Commissioner, highlighted the critical importance of counting all residents.
“This census will count everyone who is in the country. We will count Emaswati and non-Emaswati who live here,” Dlamini said. “The reason is simple: everyone uses the country’s resources. Those who plan for development, especially services, need this information to allocate resources efficiently and ensure no one is left out.”
Dlamini stressed that accurate population data is essential for national planning. When all residents are counted, policymakers can make informed decisions about healthcare, education, infrastructure, and other essential services. Without complete data, some people may remain unaccounted for despite benefiting from government services and public resources.
The workshop, hosted by the Central Statistical Office, is reviewing the 2017 census framework to ensure the 2027 questionnaire captures everyone effectively. Every question is being evaluated for clarity so that both enumerators and the public can provide accurate responses.
Stakeholders agreed that a modern census must reflect the Kingdom’s diverse population, including citizens and residents from other countries. By counting everyone, Eswatini can plan efficiently, ensure fair distribution of services, and strengthen its development agenda.
The 2027 Census will not just tally numbers; it will map the nation’s human capital, providing insights to guide policies that improve the quality of life for all who live and contribute to the Kingdom.
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