South Africa and Lesotho Collaborate on Major Water Project to Boost Regional Development
This weekend marks an important step in enhancing bilateral relations between South Africa and the Kingdom of Lesotho as South Africa’s Water and Sanitation Minister Pemmy Majodina leads a delegation on an oversight visit to Lesotho. The visit, slated for December 14 and 15, 2025, aims to assess the progress of Phase II of the Lesotho Highlands Water Project (LHWP), a critical initiative for both nations.
Minister Majodina is joined by Deputy Ministers David Mahobo and Seiso Mohai, signaling the high priority and collaborative spirit surrounding this project. The delegation will engage with Lesotho’s Minister of Natural Resources, Mohlomi Moleko, along with representatives from the Lesotho Highlands Water Commission and the Lesotho Highlands Development Authority (LHDA).
During their two-day visit, the team is set to examine vital infrastructure linked to the LHWP. Key sites like the Polihali Dam construction site, the Katse Dam Outfall Tunnel, and the Senqu Bridge are on the agenda, highlighting the project’s extensive impact on regional development. This hands-on inspection will not only showcase advancements but also facilitate discussions on the project’s continued success and sustainability.
The LHWP is pivotal for both South Africa and Lesotho, fostering a dynamic partnership while supporting developmental goals and economic growth. The initiative primarily involves constructing a network of dams and tunnels designed to transfer water from the Orange–Senqu River in the Lesotho highlands to South Africa, all while generating hydroelectric power to serve the needs of Lesotho.
Specifically, Phase II encompasses the construction of a remarkable 165-metre-high dam at Polihali and a 38-kilometre gravity tunnel that will link Polihali and Katse reservoirs. Upon completion, this phase is anticipated to boost the annual water transfer rate from 780 million cubic metres to an impressive 1,260 million cubic metres. This surge is expected to significantly enhance the Integrated Vaal River System (IVRS), which currently serves as the primary water source for South Africa’s economic hub, including Gauteng.
Earlier this month, ministers from the four Orange–Senqu River Basin states reaffirmed their dedication to safeguarding the river as a valuable resource for regional water security, climate resilience, and ecological sustainability. This united stance underscores the importance of the LHWP in addressing broader environmental challenges while promoting economic development in both nations.
As the partnership between South Africa and Lesotho strengthens through initiatives like the LHWP, it serves as a testament to the potential of collaborative efforts in addressing critical resource needs within the region.
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