On 1st July 2024, the Asutifi North District Assembly, in collaboration with the Ghana Statistical Service (GSS), held an evaluation of the 2021 Population and Housing Census (PHC) to assess its implementation, data quality, and the impact of the census results on planning and development in the district. The evaluation aimed to review the successes, challenges, and lessons learned from the census exercise and to provide recommendations for improving future censuses.
The 2021 PHC was a critical exercise that provided comprehensive data on the population size, distribution, and demographic characteristics, as well as information on housing conditions across Ghana. This data is essential for informed decision-making, policy formulation, and resource allocation at both national and district levels.
The effectiveness of the processes and methodologies used in conducting the 2021 PHC in the Asutifi North District.
The evaluation began with an opening address by the District Chief Executive (DCE), who emphasized the importance of accurate census data for effective governance and development planning. The DCE commended the GSS and the census field officers for their efforts in conducting the census under challenging conditions, including the COVID-19 pandemic.
The representative from the Regional Statistical Service outlined the national objectives of the census and highlighted the key findings for the Asutifi North District, stressing the need for data-driven decision-making in local governance.
The evaluation included a detailed review of the implementation of the 2021 PHC in Asutifi North District. This covered various stages, including planning, training of enumerators, data collection, data processing, and dissemination of results.
The assessment highlighted the comprehensive training provided to enumerators and supervisors, which equipped them with the necessary skills and knowledge to carry out their duties effectively. Despite logistical challenges, such as difficult terrain and limited access to some remote communities, the census achieved a high coverage rate, with over 98% of households in the district enumerated.
The Regional Statistical Service presented the analysis of the data quality, focusing on key indicators such as completeness, accuracy, and consistency. The evaluation found that the data quality was generally high, with minimal errors detected during the validation process.
The evaluation of the 2021 Population and Housing Census in Asutifi North District provided valuable insights into the implementation process, data quality, and the impact of the census on local planning and development. The exercise was largely successful, achieving high coverage and producing reliable data that has informed decision-making and resource allocation in the district.
However, the evaluation also highlighted areas for improvement, including the need for enhanced community engagement, better accessibility to remote areas, and strengthened data quality assurance measures. By addressing these challenges and implementing the recommendations provided, the Asutifi North District Assembly and the Ghana Statistical Service can ensure the continued success of future censuses, ultimately contributing to more effective governance and development in the district.
The ongoing commitment to data-driven decision-making and community involvement will be crucial in achieving the district’s development goals and improving the quality of life for all residents.