The 2024 Census has been extended for two more weeks following several challenges that were faced by the Census teams throughout the country that hindered the exercise from being efficiently carried out in its first two weeks. The Minister for Administrative Services, Richard Masere when announcing the extension, said this extension is necessary to address various challenges and ensure a comprehensive and accurate count. “Due to logistical issues, particularly the unavailability of domestic flights caused by fuel shortages affected Air Niugini and other aircraft operators, we experienced delays in the delivery if census materials and the mobilisation of our personnel, the minister stated. However, he said despite these challenges, all census materials and computer tablets have now been successfully delivered to their respective areas. Third- tier training is currently underway in most regions, and they expect enumeration to commence shortly in those areas affected. “We have planned a standard mop- up process as part of the 2024 Census to address any delays caused by ongoing fuel shortages or any other issues. Our team is actively reviewing and implementing contingency plans to ensure the smooth continuation of training and the enumeration process.” The minister remains optimistic about the progress of the 2024 Census and is committed to its successful completion, and for that to happen, he wants the people’s corporation with Census teams when they visit them to have them counted. “We appreciate the patience and understanding of every PNG citizen, and everyone involved and thank the prime minister and the PNG Government for continued support during this critical census time,” the minister concluded. Meanwhile, the 2024 Census initially commenced on the 17th of June and ended on the 30th of June.