Population Data is important as decisions made must be based on it and not on politics.
Prime Minister Hon. James Marape made these remarks when he launched the 5th National Census at the Stanley Hotel in Port Moresby on Wednesday 27 March, 2024.
“When you participate in this count, you make it easier for those in key responsible levels of decision making to factor you into considerations for development.”
Prime Minister Marape stated that a prosperous inclusive Papua New Guinea will only happen when government in all levels know exactly how many people being dealt with.
He encouraged everyone to participate, including both citizens and residents, as well as Business Partners and those passing through.
PM Marape said he wanted to see that every single human being have to be counted during the duration of the national census from 17– 30 June 2024.
He challenged the National Statistician and the Office of the National Statistics to ensure everyone is counted.
“There is no other event far greater than the National Census 2024. All levels of government and everyone need correct population data to make the right decisions to sort out matters”.
Mr Marape further encouraged proper coordination from the National Statistical Office to make this cost exercise a success.
“Everyone counted must have a legit number and that number will be linked to your NID, Bank details, Immigration, Voting rights…etc to access services.
“We want this Census 2024 as a basis to which we can order our country to a more ordered society,” said PM Marape.