In the rural constituency of Thaba-Putsoa, in Maseru district, the 2026 Population and Housing Census began with the same sense of anticipation seen across the country. Communities were ready. Households were willing to open their doors. But as enumeration unfolded, a different reality emerged, one marked by resilience in the face of persistent logistical challenges.

For many enumerators, the work goes far beyond collecting data. It is a daily negotiation with terrain, weather, and limited infrastructure. In Thaba-Putsoa constituency, one of the most pressing challenges has been access to power. With limited electricity and insufficient solar charging facilities, keeping tablets operational has proven difficult.

Assistant Supervisor Nkhala Koloko describes the situation candidly:
 "There are days we dedicate entirely to charging the tablets. On those days, enumeration has to stop. And sometimes, we cannot even reach the charging points because rivers are overflowing."

Such interruptions have slowed progress, particularly in hard-to-reach areas where communities are separated by long distances and natural barriers. Yet despite these hurdles, enumerators continue to press on, walking long distances, crossing difficult terrain, and adapting to ensure that no one is left uncounted.

Recognizing these challenges, the Bureau of Statistics, with support from UNFPA, the United Nations sexual and reproductive health agency, has been actively responding. UNFPA is walking this journey hand-in-hand with the Bureau, providing critical technical support. UNFPA has also supplied some of the tablets used during enumeration to strengthen the digital enumeration process. This partnership has been instrumental in troubleshooting operational challenges and ensuring that the census continues with improved efficiency and coverage.

The delays brought on by these challenges have led to an extension of the enumeration period, now expected to conclude on 30 May 2026. This extension is not just a logistical adjustment,it is a commitment to inclusivity, ensuring that even the most remote and hard-to-reach populations are counted.

Because this census matters.

It is more than a headcount. It is a powerful tool for shaping Lesotho’s future, informing decisions on healthcare, education, infrastructure, and social services. Through the data collected, the government and its partners will better understand the needs of communities, including access to maternal health services, youth development opportunities, and support for vulnerable populations.

Every person counted contributes to a clearer picture of the nation. Every household reached ensures that development planning is grounded in reality.

In places like Thaba-Putsoa, where challenges are greatest, the importance of the census is felt most deeply. And despite the obstacles, the message remains clear: everyone counts, and every effort matters.