UBOS fears theft of census tablets

With over 110,000 tablets being deployed to enumerators for mapping and data collection, UBOS fears theft of these crucial gadgets could jeopardize the entire process.

"Theft of the tablets is a major concern," said Chris Mukiza, UBOS chief executive, highlighting a similar incident during Kenya's 2019 census.

News reports from Kenya detail enumerators disappearing with tablets, some even gambling them away at bars, resulting in data loss. Additionally, break-ins at storage units led to further gadget theft.

To prevent such occurrences in Uganda, UBOS is implementing stricter measures. All enumerators and supervisors must possess National Identification Numbers (NINs) to ensure traceability.

"We cannot hire anyone without a National ID," emphasized Mukiza.

UBOS is taking a firm stance against any attempts to steal or lose the tablets. "The law will catch up with you," warned Mukiza. "We will track you down and hold you accountable."

The procurement of these tablets represents a significant investment, with UBOS spending Shs. 132 billion.

The first batch has already arrived in the country, with the delay in their acquisition a contributing factor to the postponement of the census from its original August 2023 date.