The Independent Commission for Peace and National Cohesion (ICPNC) has engaged Statistics Sierra Leone in discussions aimed at strengthening collaboration to promote peace, national cohesion, and public confidence before, during, and after the upcoming decennial census exercise.
The engagement took place during a courtesy visit by the Deputy Executive Secretary of ICPNC, Moses Margao, accompanied by the Deputy Director of Conflict Resolution Francis Sengeh and the Deputy Director of Regional Services Titus Kallon, to the office of the Statistician General, Andrew Jonny.
Welcoming the opportunity for collaboration, Mr. Margao thanked the Statistician General for receiving the delegation and commended Statistics Sierra Leone for implementing one of the key recommendations contained in the Tripartite Committee Report. He emphasized the importance of cooperation between the two institutions, noting that joint initiatives would enable them to better engage the public, promote awareness of their respective mandates, and address issues with the potential to undermine peace, national cohesion, and national security.
Mr. Margao further stated that the census process presents an important opportunity for both institutions to work together in fostering public understanding, trust, and participation while ensuring that any emerging concerns are addressed through dialogue and peaceful engagement.
Responding, the Statistician General, Andrew Jonny, expressed appreciation for the visit and underscored the important role both institutions play in promoting and sustaining peace and national cohesion across Sierra Leone.
He stressed the need for a formal Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Statistics Sierra Leone and ICPNC, noting that such an agreement would provide a clear framework for collaboration and guide the implementation of joint activities.
The Statistician General also highlighted Statistics Sierra Leone’s commitment to leveraging technology to enhance efficiency, transparency, and accountability in its operations, particularly in the implementation of the census and other national statistical activities.
The meeting concluded with both institutions reaffirming their commitment to strengthening their partnership and working together to promote peace, national cohesion, and inclusive national development throughout Sierra Leone.
