Population Census
The Population Census is the complete count of the population and housing in South Sudan, providing essential data for development planning, resource allocation, and policy formulation.
Census Key Findings
Total Population
12.44M
Male Population
6.21M
Female Population
6.23M
Households
2.18M
About the Population Census
The Population Census is the largest statistical operation conducted by the National Bureau of Statistics, providing a complete count of the population and housing units in South Sudan. The census collects vital information about the demographic, social, and economic characteristics of the population.
The most recent census was conducted in 2020, following international standards and methodologies to ensure accurate and reliable data that serves as the foundation for national development planning.
Objectives
- Provide accurate data on population size, distribution, and composition
- Establish a comprehensive demographic database for development planning
- Provide sampling frame for household surveys and other statistical activities
- Monitor progress towards national development goals and SDGs
Population Distribution by State
Census Timeline & Process
Census 2020 Timeline
Preparatory Phase
2018 - 2019
Cartography, questionnaire design, pilot census, and recruitment of field staff
Enumeration Phase
April - May 2020
Field data collection covering all households and institutions nationwide
Data Processing
June - December 2020
Data entry, cleaning, validation, and processing
Results Release
January 2021
Preliminary results released to the public
Census Methodology
De Facto Method
Population counted at their location on census night, regardless of usual residence
Household Questionnaire
Comprehensive questionnaire covering demographics, education, employment, housing, and amenities
Digital Technology
Use of tablets for data collection and GPS for location mapping
Quality Assurance
Post-enumeration survey to validate data quality and coverage
Census Data & Results
Population Pyramid
Key Demographic Indicators
Census Data Downloads
Census 2020 Final Report
Complete Analysis
Comprehensive final report of the 2020 Population Census with detailed analysis of all demographic, social, and economic characteristics.
Next Population Census
Planning for the next Population Census is underway. The census is typically conducted every ten years, with the next census scheduled for 2030.
Educational Attainment
Literacy Rates