Stats SA holds trial run for Census 2021

Statistics South Africa (Stats SA) will between October 9 and November 6 conduct a Census 2021 mini test across the country in preparation for the 2021 population survey.

During the period, said Stats SA in a statement, field workers will visit households in Buffalo City, Ekurhuleni, Mangaung, UMgungundlovu, Polokwane, Emalahleni, Kimberley, Rustenburg and Cape Town.

“[The] Census mini test will prepare for the upcoming Census in 2021 and as such, will test and review census data collection tools and systems as well as operational methodologies,” the national statistical service said.

Census 2021 will be the first population count to use new methods of data collection that involve the use of digital devices.

Field workers during the test are expected to administer the census questionnaire face to face with respondents using the Computer Assisted Personal Interview (Capi) and, where applicable, the option of Computer Assisted Web Interview (Cawi), whereby a respondent completes the web questionnaire.

Stats SA said population censuses are the key source of disaggregated data about the population and the socio-economic dynamics in the country.

The data collected through a census are used by different sectors of society – including government, business and other users – for evidence-based planning and decision making.

The first phase of training has started, where field operations officers from across the country are being prepared to implement the Census methodologies to be used.

In the statement, Statistician-General Risenga Maluleke said: “We encourage communities to participate in the Census 2021 mini test to ensure that quality data for evidence-based policy making is generated through the upcoming population count.

“Data collected remains confidential and covers demographic variables – age, sex, language spoken, migration, education, employment status and living conditions of the households, among other variables.”

Given the continued development of new settlements in the country, said Stats SA, updating the geography frame is one of the key activities that guide field work operations to ensure that all dwelling units are identified and listed for enumeration.

Field workers assigned to update the geography frame are already working across SA to ensure that a comprehensive list of enumeration areas is developed.

Stats SA field workers can be identified through the official Stats SA Identification (ID) Card displaying the Stats SA logo, the photograph and a unique number of the fieldworker.

Respondents can also contact the Census 2021 toll-free number (0800-110-248). – SAnews.gov.za