Mafeteng –The Minister of Natural Resources, Mr Mohlomi Moleko, says the government’s efforts to address water shortages in Mafeteng are progressing well, with a water supply improvement project work ahead.
Delivering remarks at the event held on Friday at Rasebala Dam, Minister of Natural Resources Mr Mohlomi Moleko said the project marked the fulfilment of the Prime Minister’s plan to address water shortages in Mafeteng, describing it as a memorable achievement.
He said Mafeteng experienced severe drought in 2024, which resulted in a serious water shortage and affected communities. He noted that in December 2024, the Prime Minister visited the district to assess the situation and identify possible solutions to the water crisis.
Mr Moleko explained that following the visit, interventions to improve water supply began through the provision of water tanks and the drilling of boreholes.
He attributed the progress to cooperation among government ministries and other stakeholders, thanking the Minister of Finance and Development Planning, Dr Rets’elisitsoe Matlanyane, who is also the Member of Parliament for Qalabane, for supporting the project.
The minister also expressed gratitude to Mr Moeketsi Mots’oane for his contribution to the initiative during his time as Chairperson of the Parliamentary Committee on the Environment and Natural Resources.
Mr Moleko said the project was not merely about excavating dams but also aimed at improving public health and living conditions. He added that the initiative would create opportunities for people interested in fish farming to earn a living.
He described the project as a symbol of what Lesotho could achieve through collective efforts, emphasising that the initiative was intended to restore the dignity of communities, improve water storage for agricultural activities and promote economic growth.
Mr Moleko said the project was initially expected to take one year to complete, but progress on the ground suggested that it could be completed within six months due to the speed at which contractors were working.
He further acknowledged concerns raised by the District Council Chairperson regarding the need to construct other dams, including in Ts’akholo, and assured the gathering that the government would look into the matter.
He said the government remained committed to improving water supply in Mafeteng, expressing hope that within two years the district would have sufficient water to meet everyone’s needs.
The minister also revealed that several contractors had submitted applications to participate in the Lesotho Lowlands Water Development Project, expected to commence in 2027 in Mafeteng and Mohale’s Hoek districts. He said the project was expected to benefit approximately 150,000 people through improved access to water.
The Lesotho Lowlands Water Development Project aims to increase water availability and improve access to safe and reliable drinking water in the country’s lowlands.
Ends/MMK
