What You Need to Know
The Lesotho Highlands Development Authority (LHDA) is set to celebrate its 40th anniversary with a series of significant events in Mokhotlong. The commemorations will highlight the agency’s contributions to water and energy infrastructure, which have bolstered Lesotho’s economy and regional water security. Key activities include the launch of a Tunnel Boring Machine and the opening of the Senqu Br
Africa-Press – Lesotho. The Lesotho Highlands Development Authority (LHDA) will 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.
The ministers have also been 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 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.
The Lesotho Highlands Development Authority was established to manage the Lesotho Highlands Water Project, which aims to provide water to South Africa while generating hydroelectric power for Lesotho. Over the past four decades, the LHDA has played a crucial role in developing infrastructure that supports both countries’ water security and economic growth. The ongoing projects, including the Polihali Dam and the Senqu Bridge, are pivotal in enhancing regional cooperation and sustainability in water management.
