Minister of Water and Natural Resources, Honourable Mohlomi Moleko, alongside South African Water and Sanitation Minister Pamela Majodina, led a tour through the Lesotho Highlands Water Project Phase II (LHWP II) in Mokhotlong last weekend to oversee the Polihali dam construction.
Lesotho and South Africa are making good progress on this large water project that will assist both countries. The project includes building a dam and other important structures.
The ministers in charge of water in both countries were pleased with what they saw during their site visit to the project. They said the project is going well, despite some challenges faced earlier on.
This project will help ensure both countries have enough water and create employment for people. The ministers agreed that regular checks are needed to finish the project on time. This project is important for both countries and will bring many benefits.
The Polihali dam is 40 percent complete and it’s transfer tunnel to Katse Dam is at 48 percent completion. Other related infrastructures, such as the Senqu bridge, are at 93 percent and expected to operate in February 2026, while the Mabunyaneng and Khubelu bridges are still lagging at 67 percent before completion.
The issue of settlements posed challenges on the project, with only 24 houses that have been built and 105 still under construction for relocated people.
However, the project has brought a positive impact on the people in its area. Women from affected communities have been equipped with life-changing skills, including detergent manufacturing, to help improve their lives and those of their families.
The dam construction commenced in 2023 and was intended to end in 2028.
