The National Statistical Office (NSO) has launched the Provincial Census Figures Report from the 2024 National Population Census in Port Moresby.
National Statistician Alfred Mokae announced that the 2024 National Population Census recorded a total population of 10,185,363 people, comprising 5,336,546 males and 4,848,817 females.
He said quality official statistics were fundamental to good governance, evidence-based policymaking, effective resource allocation and improved public service delivery.
Mokae said the Provincial Census Figures Report was particularly significant because it provided population figures at regional, provincial, district and ward levels.
“The availability of ward-level population information is particularly important,” Mokae said.
“It gives provincial administrations, district authorities, local-level governments and ward councillors a stronger evidence base to identify community needs, prioritise development interventions and advocate for essential services and infrastructure.”
He further called on government departments, provincial administrations, District Development Authorities and development partners to systematically integrate the 2024 Census results into their development plans.
“The true value of census data is not simply in collecting and publishing figures. Its value lies in how effectively we use that information to guide public investment, improve service delivery and deliver tangible development outcomes for our people,” he said.
Mokae also reaffirmed the NSO’s commitment to producing and disseminating credible, independent, impartial and timely official statistics.
He said the NSO was implementing its Transformation and Modernisation Agenda to strengthen institutional capacity, modernise statistical operations, improve data quality, expand the use of digital technologies and enhance coordination across the National Statistical System.
“Our objective is to build a modern, professional, efficient and trusted National Statistical Office capable of meeting Papua New Guinea’s growing statistical and information needs,” he said.
