Maseru, June.09—In the rugged, rolling mountains of the Roma area lies the community of Mokhokhong, a cluster of six small, interconnected villages including Ha-Phillip, Malimong, Matumeng, Mapheaneng, Ha-Mabathoana and Ha-Motebele.
For nearly three decades, life in Mokhokhong has been defined not just by its breath-taking landscapes and ancient rock paintings, but by a chronic, debilitating neglect.
Through the Ministry of Energy, the government’s rural electrification project was finally pushing through the area, bringing modern development to long-neglected villages of Mokhokhong.
For Community Councilor Mr. Thabo Marole, it was a moment of bittersweet relief, likening the long-awaited power to “Christmas in the new year.” To the elders who had seen their homes wired over two decades ago only to be forgotten, the project pushing through felt like a miracle.
However, the jubilation was tempered by the harsh realities still echoing through Mokhokhong’s steep ravines. Electricity could power a radio, a television, or a lightbulb, but it could not quench a thirst, nor could it smooth over a treacherous, mud-clogged river.
Community Councilor Marole highlighted that the residents of Ha-Mabathoana know the true cost of thirst. He said despite living in the mountainous “water tower of Southern Africa,” the village has endured severe water shortages since their 1994 water supply network dilapidated. “For over 15 years, the community has navigated a gruelling daily reality of dry taps and desperate searches for clean water.”
Moreover, he indicated that the village still lacked a proper access road. He said during the rainy seasons, the situation grew dire, saying the swollen rivers transformed into impassable barriers, forcing children to miss school and making it impossible for vehicles to reach the sick…
AT/BM
