The last article we published contained some incorrect information. Below, you’ll find information taken directly from the Census 2011 website (http://www.statssa.gov.za/census2011).
Why do we need to have a census?
The information collected will give planners, both inside and outside of government, an accurate picture of how many people are living in the country and their living conditions as well as access to basic services. This will tell them what resources people need such as education, healthcare, housing and transport. That is why it is important for everyone within the borders of South Africa on the 9th of October to participate.
Why do I have to participate in Census 2011?
Census data is used for planning purposes. If you do not participate, the data collected will not be a true reflection of the South African population. The South African government as well as private sector needs accurate information for effective planning and policy making.
Do I have to participate?
A census attempts to collect data from everyone, unlike a survey which only collects data from selected respondents. A census is therefore the only source for community level data on issues such as migration patterns, education, persons with disabilities, employment and unemployment, fertility, mortality and service delivery, all of which are critical for planning. We therefore encourage all persons in South Africa to cooperate with our fieldworkers and to give them complete and accurate data.
Legally, Section 16 of the Statistics Act (Act 6 of 1999) obliges a respondent to answer all questions put to them by an officer of Statistics South Africa. Section 17 of the Statistics Act guarantees the confidentiality of your information. The data we collect is used for statistical purposes only and no-one, not even the President of South Africa, can access data on an individual level.
How do I know that the person at my door is from Stats SA?
Our enumerators can be identified as follows:
- A yellow satchel with the Census and Stats SA logos
- They will have census questionnaires with them
- An A3-size book with a map of the area on the first page
- A yellow bib with the Census and Stats SA logos
- An ID card
All persons who applied for a census post have been vetted by NIA, and no person who has been convicted of a crime has been employed.
Can I complete the questionnaire on my own?
The fieldworkers have been specially trained to assist with the speedy completion of the questionnaire. Should you wish to complete the questionnaire on your own, you may. You can also contact the call centre (0800 110 248) should you need assistance in the completion of the questionnaire. Please ensure that all questions are answered, and make arrangements with the fieldworker to have your questionnaire collected before 30 October 2011.
Should I let the person into my house?
Due to the length of time that it takes to complete a questionnaire, we are requesting that all people within the borders of South Africa welcome the census enumerators into their homes, once they have done all the necessary checks and are satisfied that the person is legitimate. If you are not comfortable doing this, you can answer the questions through your security gate.
More Information: http://www.statssa.gov.za/census2011/faq.asp
Census 2011 Website: http://www.statssa.gov.za/census2011
This information is incorrect. It was simply copied and pasted from information about the AMERICAN census that happened in 2010. The security company that originally sent out this letter has already sent out another letter, correcting the mistakes. Go to Statistics South Africa’s website for the correct information.
Thanks Johna for your quick uptake
We’ve subsequently removed the incorrect information and posted info straight from the Census 2011 website.
We have not been counted! NO RESOPSE FROM NR GIVEN
Please contact the call centre on either 0800 110 248 or 080 236 7872. If you have no luck there, please try the contact details here: http://www.statssa.gov.za/census2011/provincial.asp
Good luck!