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Insights from the preliminary report on the 2023 POPULATION AND HOUSING CENSUS
from FlyNamibia May 2024
The Namibia Statistics Agency (NSA) has unveiled the preliminary findings of the 2023 Population and Housing Census (PHC). This milestone marks Namibia's first fully digital census, leveraging technology to enhance operational efficiency and data quality. The release of the preliminary report offers a glimpse into Namibia's evolving demographic landscape, shedding light on population growth, regional disparities and household dynamics. The census employed a de facto approach, counting individuals who spent the census reference night in the country, coupled with a comprehensive listing of structures using Geographic Information Systems (GIS) technology.
KEY FINDINGS
Namibia's population now stands at 3.02 million, a nearly twofold increase since independence in 1990. The report shows that Namibia experiences accelerated population growth, with an annual intercensal growth rate of 3.0%, the highest since independence. The Khomas Region emerges as the most populous, followed by Ohangwena and Omusati, while Omaheke remains the least populous. The report also shows that the average household size has decreased to 3.8 persons per household, indicating shifting demographic patterns. As for gender composition, females constitute 51.2% of the population, continuing a trend observed in previous censuses.
TOTAL POPULATION OF NAMIBIA ON 24 SEPTEMBER 2023: 3,022,401
REGIONAL INSIGHTS
With 494,729 inhabitants the Khomas Region maintains its status as the most populous region in the country, while Ohangwena and Omusati follow closely with population counts of 337,729 and 326,671 respectively.
The smallest household sizes are shown for the //Kharas and Erongo regions, in contrast to Kavango East and Kavango West's larger households. In terms of regional variances, Ohangwena boasts the highest population density, followed by Oshana and Khomas, while //Kharas, Hardap and Kunene are sparsely populated regions.
The 2023 PHC implemented robust data quality monitoring mechanisms, leveraging GIS technology and real-time dashboards. Public engagement initiatives fostered community participation to minimise errors and ensure comprehensive coverage. In compliance with the Statistics Act, the census protects individuals' privacy by only reporting aggregated data. Personal details are strictly safeguarded to maintain confidentiality and data integrity.
The report offers a comprehensive snapshot of the country’s demographic landscape. From population growth trends to regional disparities and household dynamics, the findings provide invaluable insights for policymakers, researchers and stakeholders. As Namibia continues to evolve demographically, the digital transformation of censustaking processes ensures timely and accurate data for informed decision-making.
WHY IT IS IMPORTANT
Census data serves as a powerful tool for monitoring and evaluating the efficacy of implemented policies and programs. By tracking demographic shifts and socio-economic trends over time, policymakers can gauge the impact of interventions and recalibrate their approaches accordingly, ensuring optimal outcomes and societal progress. Equity in the distribution of government services and allocation of resources hinges on the accuracy and comprehensiveness of census data. By identifying areas of need and disparities within communities, governments can allocate resources judiciously, striving to bridge gaps and uplift marginalised populations. Whether it is determining the location of schools, healthcare facilities or infrastructure projects, census data guides equitable distribution and thereby fosters inclusivity and social cohesion.
The census plays a pivotal role in monitoring the progress of developmental goals, ranging from National Development Plans (NDPs) to global agendas like Vision 2030 and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
