Statistics Sierra Leone (Stats SL), in collaboration with the Ministry of Health (MoH) and with technical support from ICF, has commenced a three-week Demographic and Health Survey (DHS) Pre-Test Training of Trainers workshop aimed at equipping field personnel with the knowledge and skills required for effective data collection ahead of the upcoming nationwide survey.
The training workshop brings together key stakeholders, technical experts, participants, and sector representatives to build capacity on the survey instruments and prepare for the effective pre-testing of the questionnaires that will guide the implementation of the exercise.
The Director of Demographic, Health and Social Statistics at Statistics Sierra Leone, Mohamed Koblo Kamara, explained the purpose of the training and the significance of the survey. He described the DHS as one of the country’s most important national surveys, providing critical indicators on maternal and child health, nutrition, fertility, and other key development areas. He noted that the survey serves as an important source of data for the Ministry of Health and other stakeholders, supporting evidence-based decision-making and programme planning. He called on participants to actively engage in the training and uphold high standards throughout the exercise, emphasizing that quality data is essential for effective national development planning.
Representing ICF, Hanna Useem expressed her excitement about working with Statistics Sierra Leone to achieve the objectives of the survey. She described the DHS as a vital exercise that will contribute significantly to strengthening the country’s health and demographic data systems. She reaffirmed ICF’s commitment to supporting Stats SL throughout the survey process and commended the institution for its continued dedication to producing quality statistics for national development.
Speaking on behalf of the Ministry of Health, the monitoring and evaluation specialist, Nelson Fofanah, highlighted the importance of the DHS in assessing the effectiveness of health interventions across the country. He noted that the survey enables the Ministry to track progress in service delivery, identify gaps, and evaluate the impact of health programmes and services. According to him, the DHS remains a critical component of Sierra Leone’s healthcare system, providing the evidence needed to guide policy formulation, programme implementation, and resource allocation. He added that the Ministry’s interventions are largely informed by data generated through surveys such as the DHS.
Delivering the keynote address and officially declaring the training open, the Statistician General and Chief Executive Officer of Statistics Sierra Leone, Andrew Bob Johnny, underscored the importance of the Demographic and Health Survey in informing national health policies and programmes. He noted that Sierra Leone has conducted several DHS rounds over the years, each providing critical data for planning and development. He urged participants to take the training seriously, emphasizing that the survey would play a key role in monitoring progress on health indicators and improving the well-being of citizens. He further stated that future health interventions by government and development partners would be guided by the findings of the survey.
Mr. Johnny encouraged participants to remain focused, disciplined, and committed throughout the training, stressing that quality is paramount and that the success of the survey depends on the professionalism and dedication of those involved.
A Demographic and Health Survey (DHS) is a nationally representative household survey that collects standardized data on population, health, and nutrition. The survey provides critical information on fertility, maternal and child health, nutrition, mortality, and other key health indicators, helping policymakers, development partners, researchers, and public health officials make informed decisions and track development progress.
