DRC Launches Census Mapping Agent Recruitment Ahead of 2027 Population Count
- Politics
The Democratic Republic of Congo has officially launched the recruitment of agents for census mapping, a critical step toward the country’s second General Population and Housing Census (RGPH-2), scheduled for July 2027.
Speaking at a press conference in Kinshasa on June 1, 2026, Guylain Nyembo Mbwizya, Minister of State for Planning and Development Cooperation, emphasized the census’s role as a strategic tool for national development planning. He noted that the last reliable population data dates back to 1984, far exceeding the United Nations’ recommended ten-year interval.
“This operation will provide us with more precise information to better serve our population and strengthen governance,” Nyembo stated. “The census has always been a priority; we needed to meet the necessary conditions, which we have now achieved.”
Why a new census matters
Over four decades since the last census, RGPH-2 aims to deliver accurate and comprehensive demographic data essential for public policy formulation, infrastructure planning, and equitable resource distribution. The government has allocated significant resources to ensure the operation’s success, with a total budget estimated at $192 million.
A ‘Basket Fund’ mechanism is being established to consolidate contributions from technical and financial partners, addressing the remaining funding gap.
Key positions and recruitment criteria
The recruitment drive targets specialists in various fields, including:
- Training of trainers
- Cartographic operators
- Geographic Information Systems (GIS) experts
- Information and Communication Technology (ICT) assistants
Minister Nyembo underscored the transparency of the process, stating that candidates will be selected based on merit, with no room for fraud or favoritism. The deadline for applications is June 7, 2026, and submissions are to be made via recrutement.rgph.cd.
A national priority with local opportunities
The census represents an opportunity to mobilize local talent, particularly among youth and women, creating temporary employment for thousands of Congolese. Nyembo encouraged qualified individuals across the country to apply, emphasizing the importance of inclusive representation in all provinces.
“We need agents who are honest, disciplined, and committed to public service,” he said. “This recruitment drive reaffirms our determination to complete this process successfully.”
