Dear Editor,
I write to express concern over the Government of Guyana’s intention to rely on extrapolated data from the incomplete 2022 census in preparing the national budget for 2026. While governments often use projections to fill temporary data gaps, the situation with the 2022 census is fundamentally different: it remains unfinished, unreleased in full, and widely questioned for its accuracy. Using incomplete census information as the basis for national planning risks producing a budget that misallocates resources, overlooks vulnerable communities, and fails to reflect the country’s true demographic and economic realities.
Census data is not merely statistical—it is the backbone of evidence-based policymaking. It guides decisions on education, healthcare, housing, social assistance, infrastructure, and local government allocations. When the underlying data is incomplete, any extrapolation becomes guesswork rather than informed estimation. The government has not provided clarity on the methodology being used, the margin of error, or the steps taken to validate the projections. This lack of transparency undermines public confidence and raises the risk of systematic bias.
Guyana is currently experiencing rapid population shifts due to migration, urbanization, and emerging economic opportunities, particularly in the oil and gas sector. These changes cannot be reliably captured through partial data. Extrapolating from an incomplete base could lead to underfunding in some regions and over-allocation in others. Communities that are already struggling may be further disadvantaged if the budget does not accurately reflect their needs.
Before finalizing the 2026 Budget, the government should release the full results of the 2022 census, clearly explain any deficiencies, and outline the statistical techniques used to address them. Independent review by local and international experts would also help restore confidence. National planning must be grounded in reliable and transparent data—not assumptions. Guyanese deserve a budget that reflects the real population and its needs. Anything less risks compromising equitable development and public trust.