Eight things you should be aware of in the 2019 census

With only a week away to the 2019 census, there are a number of Kenyans who still don’t know how the exercise will be conducted.

Some people question if those in the diaspora will be counted or the ones who will be out of the country during the time of the process.

The census will start on August 24th 2019 and end on August 31st 2019. The enumerators are expected to take about 30 minutes in every household.

Here are some of the most frequently asked questions by Kenyans in the 2019 census as stated by the Kenya National Bureau of Statistics (KNBS).

How will the Census data be captured?

For the first time, all the data required for the Census will be captured electronically through a tablet computer. The questions are being loaded on to the gadget and the whole enumeration process will, therefore, be paperless.

Is there confidentiality of the census data?

Yes. Census data is strictly confidential. All information collected is strictly for use by census officials. All census officials will swear an “Oath of Secrecy” as embodied in the Statistics Act 2006.

Will Kenyans in the diaspora be counted?

No. Kenyans in the diaspora will not be counted. However, household members will be asked some questions about members of their households who migrated to other countries in the last 15 years.

Will people who work night duty be counted?

All those on duty on the night of 24th August 2019, such as doctors, nurses and watchmen will be counted with the household even though they are absent.

What happens if one is not at home on the night of 24 August 2019?

Enumerators will attempt to visit your home again to ensure you’re counted. The entire process will take seven days.

Will data on ethnic composition be collected?

Yes, information on tribe or ethnicity and nationality will be collected due to its statistical and cultural value.

Who will be counted during the Census?

All persons who will be within the borders of Kenya on the census night will be counted. This will include persons found in the households, outdoor sleepers, persons on transit, individuals in hotels and lodges, and institutions such as hospitals, prisons and army barracks among others.

Are there any security measures?

The security agencies are fully involved and are part of the national and county census committees. Enumerators will have official identity cards and reflector jackets for ease of identification.