The Bugisu Cultural Institution has commended the Uganda Bureau of Statistics (UBOS) for the timely release of the Census 2024 data, which reveals a significant increase in the population of the Bagisu people. This development was shared during a courtesy call to UBOS Census Commissioner, Dr. Chris Mukiza, at Statistics House in Kampala.
Counsel Richard Masereje, the institution’s legal representative, led the delegation and expressed gratitude for the bureau’s efficiency. “We applaud UBOS for releasing the Census 2024 results on time. For years, we’ve relied on 2014 figures; now we can plan better for our people using scientific evidence.”
According to the Census 2024 Provisional Results, the Bagisu population has increased by 448,767 people over the last decade, from 1,647,382 in 2014 to 2,096,149 in 2024. This growth is a testament to the institution’s efforts in promoting development and well-being among its people.
Masereje seized the opportunity to request separate census results for the Bagisu and Sebins, two ethnic groups within the Elgon sub-region. He proposed that Elgon be recognized as a standalone statistical sub-region, excluding Kapchorwa, Kween, and Bukwo districts. This distinction would enable more targeted planning and decision-making for the Bugisu people.
UBOS currently groups Sebei and Bugiso under the Elgon sub-region, alongside other sub-regions such as:
- Acholi
- Lango
- Ankole
- Bunyoro
- Toro
- Buganda North
- Buganda South
- West Nile
- Bukedi
- Busoga
- Kigezi
- Teso
- Karamoja
The proposed change would provide more nuanced data, enabling the institution to better serve its people.
Dr. Chris Mukiza, UBOS Census Commissioner, welcomed the collaboration between UBOS and the Bugisu Cultural Institution. He emphasized that cultural institutions are vital stakeholders in the statistical value chain, benefiting from quality data and information.
“The Census 2024 data is robust and of high quality. It’s time to utilize this latest statistical data and information. Your presence here is a testament to the importance cultural institutions attach to statistical products,” Dr. Mukiza noted.
The delegation, including Hon. Vincent Waboya, pledged continued support to UBOS’s work. Dr. Mukiza appreciated their cooperation, particularly during the Census 2024 exercise.
Uganda’s total population now stands at 45,904,417, with females making up 24,338,681 and males 21,566,736. The population has grown by 11.3 million people between 2014 and 2024, with a 2.9% growth rate.
President Yoweri Museveni has consistently emphasized the benefits of a growing population, citing its potential for socio-economic transformation.
The Bugisu Cultural Institution’s enthusiasm for the Census 2024 data reflects the significance of accurate statistics in informing development initiatives and policy decisions.
