Solomon Islands’ estimated population recorded at the midnight of 24th November 2019 was 720,956.
This is a 2.6 percent increase from the total population of 558, 457 recorded in the 2009 Population and Housing Census report.
The latest figure was captured in the 2019 Population and Housing Census National Report launched in Honiara earlier this month.
The 2019 Population and Housing Census National Report
Malaita has the highest population of 172,740, followed by Guadalcanal with 154,022, and Honiara with 129,569.
The Western province has a population of 94,106, Makira/Ulawa with 51,587, Isabel with 31,420, Choiseul with 30,775, Central Islands province with 30,319, and Temotu with 22,319.
Rennell and Bellona have the lowest population of 4,100 people.
Government Statistician Douglas Kimi said the 2019 Population and Housing Census project of the current government.
“The 2019 census project is also a key project implemented under the framework of the national statistics development strategy that aims to support key data requirements for our nation’s national development strategy, medium term development strategy, and our fiscal and monetary policy.
“As you are aware, one of the key purposes of this release is to immediately provide new aggregate population estimates to be immediately used at this time to support evidence-based decision making, policy and planning and monitoring and evaluation purposes,” Mr Kimi said.
Government Statistician Douglas Kimi
He added his office will be working to ensure the key findings reach the wider community to allow them to be informed of the facts and then use the key findings in their own decision-making process.
Meanwhile Minister of Finance and Treasury Hon Harry Kuma said the report will guide the government in making informed decisions.
“I am pleased to see the successful conclusion of the 2019 census project.
“The key findings will be disseminated to a wider community, as well as our key stakeholders and development partners, to work on evidence-based decision making and planning for policy formulation.
“Up to date census data, as well as other resource statistics, when used correctly, will ultimately lead to changes in the livelihood of people,” Hon Kuma pointed out.
Minister of Finance and Treasury Hon Harry Kuma
The report captures some important up-to-date data on issues affecting the country.
The process of finalizing and releasing the report has been delayed due to the 2021 riots in Honiara and the COVID-19 pandemic.
ENDS///
By Alex Dadamu
