Lesotho’s 2026 Housing and Population Census has failed to begin nationwide as planned, with the Bureau of Statistics confirming that counting is underway in only four of the country’s 10 districts.
The national enumeration was scheduled to start on 12 April but delays in issuing final lists of enumerators have pushed back preparations in most areas.
Bureau Director ’Malehloa Molato told state media on Sunday that only Berea, Quthing, Qacha’s Nek and Botha‑Bothe have begun counting.
In the remaining six districts, enumerator training will only start on Monday, meaning fieldwork will begin later than the official launch date.
The census, conducted every 10 years, is one of Lesotho’s most important national exercises, providing data used for planning, budgeting and development programmes.
Authorities had earlier announced that the 2026 round would begin simultaneously across the country, but the late release of enumerator lists on 10 April disrupted logistical arrangements.
Molato said the Bureau is working to minimise delays and ensure that all districts begin counting as soon as training is completed.
The census is expected to capture updated information on population size, household conditions, migration patterns and socio‑economic indicators.
JN/APA