News Release
Maseru, September 14th – Over 200 women working on Phase II of the Lesotho Highlands Water Project gathered on September 14 at the Polihali Multi-Purpose Recreation Centre to celebrate Women in Construction Day. The event honours the critical role women play in shaping both the Lesotho Highlands Water Project, the broader construction industry, and more importantly, their contribution to Lesotho’s development. It highlights their strengths, skills, and knowledge while providing a platform for professional development, leadership, and networking—encouraging women to grow and excel in the construction field.
The LHDA was thrilled to be joined by the Minister of Public Works, Honourable Matjato Moteane, who was accompanied by the Acting Director of Building Design Services, Motheba Letsoela, MPAMOT Africa CEO Malani Padayachee, South African Institute of Civil Engineers CEO Sekadi Phayane, and Consulting Engineers South Africa’s Marketing Communications Manager Bonolo Nkgoli. Representing the Lesotho Association of Engineers was our own ‘Mamokhethi Nthane. LHDA management was represented by Gerard Mokone, the manager at Polihali.
Speaking at the event, Honourable Minister Moteane, who, before public office, led the architectural design of key Phase II components including the Polihali Village, Polihali Operations Building, and Katse Lodge upgrades, expressed his pride in the Project’s role in transforming the nation’s economy. He applauded the women for taking bold steps in their professional development, noting that their efforts will significantly support the government’s mission to diversify the economy.
A special highlight of the event was the presence of girl learners from ten high schools in the Project area. These young women had the opportunity to engage with professionals and guest speakers, learning about the Lesotho Highlands Water Project and the many opportunities it holds for their future. Their inclusion is a deliberate effort by the project’s women professionals to inspire, mentor and support girls to pursue STEM subjects and ultimately join careers in engineering.
Guest speakers further inspired the audience by discussing resources available for women to register as professionals in various fields, sharing their own stories of personal and professional growth.
This year’s theme, “Polo Chic Elegance” in nude tones, set a stylish and sophisticated backdrop for the celebration. The mood was elevated by an exciting entertainment lineup featuring DJ Tseko, Selimo Thabane, and Ntate Stunna, making the event truly unforgettable.
The tradition of Women in Construction Day dates to the early days of construction on Phase II of the Lesotho Highlands Water Project. The event is supported majorly by contractors of the LHDA working under Phase II of the project. It is held each year in August or September to align with Pan African Women’s Day on July 31st and African Women’s Month celebrated in South Africa in August.
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Contacts:
Ntoetse Lerotholi
lerotholin@lhda.org.ls / 58928845 /63279549
Mpho Brown
brownm@lhda.org.ls / 58880035