FAO supports Tuvalu in the first National Crops and Livestock Census

Funafuti - In preparation for Tuvalu’s first National Crops and Livestock Census, FAO is providing technical and methodological supports in collaboration with the Ministry of Natural Resources Development, Central Statistics Division and the Pacific Community (SPC). Today, a training is kick-started to equip field staff with the knowledge, skills and tools to collect accurate and high-quality census data.

“This census is far more than just counting farms and animals. It is about creating a solid foundation of evidence. It will provide the essential information needed to build a more resilient and prosperous agricultural sector for all of Tuvalu,” said Guangzhou Qu, FAO Subregional Coordinator for the Pacific Islands in his remarks at the training.

He also encouraged all training participants to do their best as this will be a service to their families, communities and motherland. “Everyone involved will become a part of history,“ he further said.

The National Crops and Livestock Census which will be conducted in 2026 will be a historic first of its kind to count the whole country’s population, with a focus on agricultural holdings. This census will record data from all crops, livestock and other on-farm activities. These data will empower the Government of Tuvalu to make informed decisions about food security, support farmers and livestock holders, shape agricultural policy. They are also instrumental in reporting on the progress of Sustainable Development Goals.

Approximately 1 800 Tuvaluan households will participate across Funafuti and the eight groups of outer islands - Nanumea, Nanumaga, Niutao, Nui, Vaitupu, Nukufetau, Nukulealae and Niulakita. A total of 40 enumerators will be deployed to collect these data based on a set of census protocol, by using tablet computers and GPS tool. Well-trained field staff will ensure consistent and accurate collection of household and farm data. It will also improve operational efficiency during field development, particularly in remote location.

Besides this training, FAO assistance encompasses the development of testing of census methodology; preparation of questionnaire and data collection tool; and supporting data processing, analysis, reporting and results dissemination. This assistance is funded by FAO’s Technical Cooperation Prograamme (TCP). Since 1976, this programme has made FAO’s know-how and technical expertise available to member countries, particularly for immediate and specific needs.