GARISSA – The Garissa High Court has declared the 2019 census results for Garissa, Wajir, and Mandera counties null and void, citing serious irregularities in the data collection process.
The court’s decision, announced on Tuesday, has set a new precedent for the integrity of population statistics in Kenya.
The court found that the Kenya National Bureau of Statistics (KNBS) failed to uphold fundamental data integrity standards during the 2019 census, leading to inaccurate population figures for the affected counties.
As a result, all constitutional bodies are now barred from using the disputed census data for official purposes, including resource allocation, electoral boundaries, and policymaking.
The ruling mandates that a new census be conducted in the three counties within one year. Until the new data is available, the government will revert to using the 2009 census results for all official functions in Garissa, Wajir, and Mandera.
Local residents in the affected counties have welcomed the ruling, emphasizing the need for accurate census data to ensure fair representation and equitable distribution of resources.
“Today’s ruling is a step towards ensuring that every Kenyan is counted correctly, which is fundamental for equitable development and representation,” said Ahmed Yusuf, a resident of Bula Mzuri in Garissa.
Dr. Naomi Njeru, a demographer, pointed out that while the need for accurate data is paramount, the costs and operational complexities associated with executing a fresh census cannot be overlooked.
“The integrity of census data is essential, but the practical implications of this ruling must be considered carefully,” Dr. Njeru said.
The 2019 census figures in the affected counties revealed significant discrepancies. Garissa County reported a population of 841,353, with a population density of 19 people per square kilometre. Wajir County had a population of 781,263, with an unusually high average household size of 6.1, well above the national average of 3.9. Mandera County’s census data showed a population of 867,457, a 15.4% decline compared to the 2009 census.
The ruling places a substantial burden on the KNBS, which will now be tasked with coordinating a new census within the set timeline.
The Ministry of Interior and Coordination of National Government has by the time of going to press yet to release a statement on the ruling or provide clarity on the steps to be taken.
This landmark decision affects administrative functions but also sets a precedent for future handling of census data discrepancies.
The ruling is set to influence national policies on data management and transparency, with a focus on accountability in the collection and use of demographic data.
It will also have broader implications for political representation, resource distribution, and development planning.
