Nationwide population census: DRC government begins recruitment of mapping agents ahead of 2027 count

The Democratic Republic of Congo is advancing toward its second general population and housing census (RGPH-2), with authorities announcing the recruitment of agents responsible for census mapping operations. The actual population count is scheduled to begin in July 2027, marking a significant milestone 42 years after the last nationwide census conducted in 1984.

Census as a strategic development tool

During a June 1 press conference in Kinshasa, Guylain Nyembo Mbwizya, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Planning and Development Coordination, emphasized the critical importance of reliable demographic data for national development planning. He noted that the lack of updated census data since 1984 has hindered effective governance, with United Nations recommendations calling for decennial population counts.

“This operation will enable us to achieve greater precision, obtain more reliable information, and improve our ability to serve the population and strengthen our national governance. The census has always been a priority — we simply needed to create the necessary conditions. Today, those conditions are in place, which is why we are officially launching this process.”

Recruitment of specialized agents

The government is actively recruiting several categories of professionals to support the mapping phase:

• Training of trainers – to prepare field teams
• Census mapping operators – responsible for geographic data collection
• Geographic Information Systems (GIS) specialists – to process spatial data
• ICT assistants – to ensure digital data integrity

The minister stressed that candidates will be selected based on strict merit-based criteria, with a deadline of June 7, 2026 for applications. Interested individuals are invited to apply through the dedicated platform at recrutement.rgph.cd.

“I reassure the public that this recruitment will be conducted with full transparency, fairness, and equality. No fraud, favoritism, or discrimination will be tolerated. Selection will be based solely on competence and clearly defined qualifications.”

National mobilization and youth opportunities

The census project is also seen as a major opportunity to harness local talent and create temporary employment for thousands of Congolese, particularly young people and qualified women. The government is encouraging widespread participation to ensure nationwide representation.

“This census represents a historic opportunity for our youth. It will mobilize thousands of local professionals in service to the nation.”

Phased rollout and funding challenges

The census process consists of four phases, with the mapping stage currently underway in Kinshasa and set to expand to other provinces. The government has secured initial funding but estimates the total cost at $192 million, with additional resources needed from technical and financial partners. A Basket Fund mechanism is being established to consolidate contributions and ensure coordinated financing.

This census initiative aligns with a core campaign promise made by President Félix Tshisekedi and is expected to provide essential data for infrastructure planning, public policy development, and equitable resource allocation across all provinces.