Uganda embarks on landmark survey to count every child
The ambitious national initiative aims to generate high-quality, inclusive demographic and health data, significantly bolstering Uganda’s statistical capacity and placing children at the core of the national development agenda.
The Uganda Bureau of Statistics (UBOS) and UNICEF formalized a landmark collaboration on Monday, signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to launch Uganda’s first-ever Multiple Indicator Cluster Survey (MICS) 2026/27.
The ambitious national initiative aims to generate high-quality, inclusive demographic and health data, significantly bolstering Uganda’s statistical capacity and placing children at the core of the national development agenda.
The MICS 2026/27 is specifically designed to support the monitoring of the National Development Plan IV (NDP IV), the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and progress made on child rights.
Dr. Chris N. Mukiza, the Executive Director of UBOS, emphasized that the data collected is crucial for evidence-based national planning, particularly given the historical context of child vulnerability in the country.
“Child poverty in Uganda remains persistent, based on findings from the survey conducted six years ago,” Dr. Mukiza stated. He stressed that the upcoming MICS 2026/27 will play a critical role in updating this vital evidence to guide national strategies.
A Commitment to Transparency and Integrity
The UBOS Executive Director outlined the survey timeline, noting that 2026 will involve key preparatory activities, including the formation of technical teams, intensive training, and the commencement of fieldwork. The final MICS report is slated for completion and dissemination in 2027.
Dr. Mukiza also strongly reaffirmed the Bureau’s commitment to full transparency and accountability in resource management, referencing the institution’s recent success during the national census.
“No coin will be lost during this survey,” he guaranteed. “During the Census, there was no case of misuse of resources.”
He concluded by celebrating the partnership: “Together, we reaffirm our commitment to data-driven action that improves the lives of children and families across Uganda. The successful launch sets the stage for a stronger, more inclusive future for all.”
Putting Children at the Center of Development
Dr. Robin Nandy, UNICEF’s Representative to Uganda, highlighted the immense potential of the survey to drive targeted action.
“Multiple Indicator Cluster Survey 2026/27 is designed to ensure every child is counted and no one is left behind,” Dr. Nandy said during his remarks, noting that this effort will ensure children are centralized within national development priorities.
He stressed that the data gathered will guide national strategies and empower communities, development partners, and donors to direct support precisely where it is needed most for vulnerable children and families across Uganda.
Dr. Nandy urged stakeholders to remember the profound human impact behind the data collection. “Let us remember that behind each statistic is a human—a child who deserves to grow up healthy and educated, a mother seeking safe water and nutrition, and a community striving for a brighter future.”
Reiterating UNICEF’s global expertise, which has seen MICS conducted in over 120 countries since the 1990s, Dr. Nandy assured his continued engagement.
“As Head of UNICEF in Uganda, I can assure my technical and financial support throughout this process,” he added, affirming UNICEF’s commitment to maintaining the highest standards of data quality and integrity throughout the implementation of the MICS 2026/27.
