Statistics Sierra Leone

Statistics Sierra Leone (SSL) was constitutionally effected by the 2002 Statistics and Census Act. SSL replaces the former Central Statistics Office, which had been in operation since independence in 1961. Mission/Goal Statistics Sierra Leone coordinates, collects, compiles, analyses and disseminates high quality and objective official statistics to assist informed decision-making, and discussion within the government, business and the media, as well as the wider national and international community. SSL is currently going through a restructuring phase and a National Strategy for the Development of Statistics (NSDS) in Sierra Leone has been developed. The NSDS focuses on a five (5) year statistical work programme which priorities statistical activities aimed at achieving national goals and targets that include progress and performance against the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) and Poverty Reduction. Over the years, the institution has conducted series of surveys with support from its partners. Recently, the office conducted the first ever Sierra Leone Demographic and Health Survey (SLDHS), which is part of a worldwide survey programme and it is currently in the data entry and processing stage. The Survey monitors and tracks down Infant Mortality, the rate of HIV/AIDS, Anemia, Child Labour, Reproduction, effects of Female Genital Mutilation, and the use of Contraceptives. The SLDHS will be conducted after every five (5) years, and will periodically monitor and provide an international database that can be used by researchers investigating topics related to population, health and nutrition.