The DA calls on all South Africans to participate fully and honestly in the upcoming 3rd national population census. To know whether South Africa is making progress, and to establish what more needs to be done, we ask all citizens to please co-operate fully with the officials and make Census 2011 a success. 

Stats SA is about to undertake the 3rd population census since the advent of democracy in South Africa. Starting on the 10th of October, you can expect a Census official, dressed in a yellow bib, to visit your home and ask you questions about your age, sex, employment, education, income, and births and deaths that occurred in your household. They will also ask you about your access to services such as water, electricity and sanitation. 

This complex exercise is very important, as the census results form the basis on which many government decisions are made. Each and every person in South Africa needs to take part, and answer the questions honestly, for the census to be as accurate as possible. 

The census plays a crucial role as it provides the government and the public with reliable, official statistics with which to, amongst other things:

• Ensure that government funds and services are distributed in an equitable manner, 
• Clearly define electoral districts at a local and national level, and 
• Help the private sector with business planning and market analyses

For more information call Stats SA on 0800 110 248 or visit www.statssa.gov.za.

Census 2011 has the full support of the Democratic Alliance.