During the last three decades, population and housing censuses have been the most
critical source of data for policy decisions and for formulation, monitoring and evaluation
of national and sectoral development programmes in Africa. This was achieved
through active participation of many countries in the decennial census programmes,
commonly known as census rounds. The 2000 census round can be described successful
in most cases. However, a number of countries experienced implementation
problems and challenges, including inadequate funding and weak technical expertise
in national statistics offices. To ensure successful implementation of the 2010
census round, it will be necessary to develop strategies that would address the identified
problems of 2000 round. For instance, African governments and the international
community should commit adequate resources to statistical programmes, including
censuses and enhance capacities of the national statistics offices, especially
through formal training of staff and provision of the equipment and materials.