Mokhotlong , April 14 — The Lesotho Highlands Development Authority (LHDA) will from Monday host a series of high-profile events at Polihali in Mokhotlong to mark its 40th anniversary.
The commemorations celebrate four decades of water and energy infrastructure development that have significantly contributed to Lesotho’s economy and regional water security.
According to LHDA, the programme will commence with the official launch of the second Tunnel Boring Machine (TBM) on the Polihali side of the 38.5-kilometre transfer tunnel. The launch will be led by the Minister of Natural Resources, Mr Mohlomi Moleko, together with South Africa’s Minister of Water and Sanitation, Ms Pemmy Majodina.
The milestone is expected to accelerate progress on a key component of the Lesotho Highlands Water Project, which will facilitate the transfer of water from Polihali to Katse, further strengthening water security for both Lesotho and South Africa.
On Tuesday, the ministers are scheduled to visit the Polihali Dam site to mark the attainment of Milestone One, achieved in December 2025, and to assess ongoing construction works. Upon completion, the dam is projected to be the largest concrete-faced rock-fill dam in Africa.
The three-day programme will conclude on Wednesday with the official opening of the Senqu Bridge, the first extra-dosed bridge in Lesotho. The 825-metre-long bridge, standing 90 metres high, will be inaugurated by His Majesty King Letsie III and the President of South Africa, Mr Cyril Ramaphosa.
LHDA noted that the Polihali project and the broader Lesotho Highlands Water Project are aligned with several United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including SDG 6 on clean water and sanitation, SDG 7 on affordable and clean energy, SDG 8 on decent work and economic growth, and SDG 9 on industry, innovation and infrastructure.
The project also contributes to SDG 13 on climate action through improved water management systems and SDG 17 on partnerships, reflecting strong bilateral cooperation between Lesotho and South Africa.
As LHDA commemorates its 40-year legacy, the developments underscore Lesotho’s strategic role in advancing regional water security and sustainable development.
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