Enumeration Area Demarcation (EAD) is the process whereby the National Population Commission delineates the geographical boundaries and the corresponding characteristics of every enumeration area in its jurisdiction. The enumeration areas are the basic geographic units that are used in conducting a census or any other statistical survey. EAD is a fundamental step in the preparation of a census as it allows the Commission to allocate its resources and effectively plan for the collection of census data.
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Geospatial resources and technology play a critical role in the EAD process. Census bureaus use various geospatial and mapping technologies to create accurate and reliable maps of the enumeration areas. These maps help to visualize the boundaries and characteristics of the enumeration areas and make it easier to plan and conduct an effective census. Some of the geospatial technologies used in EAD include Geographic Information Systems (GIS), satellite imagery, and GPS technology.
EAD also requires human resources to manage and conduct the demarcation process. This includes trained personnel skilled in geospatial technologies, statistical sampling and analysis, and community engagement. Each country’s census bureau also needs to engage local communities to ensure that the enumeration areas reflect the local context and cultural nuances. Community involvement ensures that diverse opinions are considered, the unique characteristics of each community are captured, and the census data collected is accurate.
EAD is not only important for conducting a successful census but also for the development planning of a country. The data collected from the census is crucial in guiding national development policies and for the provision of public services and infrastructure. Accurate EAD ensures that the right resources are allocated to different regions and communities based on their specific needs, making development planning more equitable and effective. Additionally, EAD can support disaster planning and response efforts since it allows a government to quickly identify and locate affected households and communities.
In summary, EAD is a crucial process in a country’s census and development planning. It requires a combination of geospatial technologies, trained personnel, and community engagement to ensure accurate and relevant data is collected. The data collected through EAD can inform national development policies and support the provision of public services and infrastructure. The National Population Commission has done this successfully for the 2023 Population and Housing Census.
