By: Kananelo Maphenchane

Maseru

The Lesotho Highlands water project officially launches the Polihali to Katse Tunnel Boring Machine, which will bore a 38km water transfer tunnel, digging 20m per day. The Polihali to Katse Transfer Tunnel is a key component of Phase II of the Lesotho Highlands Water Project. It will facilitate the gravity transfer of water from the Polihali reservoir to the Katse reservoir enabling the transfer of 1 270 cubic meters of water, contributing towards meeting SA’s Gauteng increasing water needs.

In line with the project’s tradition, the new Tunnel Boring Machine needed to be named before officially starting the project, and the LHDA called to Basotho at home and in the diaspora to participate in the naming of this TBM by sending in name suggestions that followed the guidelines given by the LHDA. A carefully selected panel of judges chose the top 10 submitted names and allowed the nation to make its choice from those selected.

The name that came out on top is Khoiti-Ea-‘Ngoaha-Kholo, submitted by Mary Taolana, who was awarded M50 000.00 for it. In an interview with Informative, she explains that the name is inspired by a mole rat, which does a similar thing to the TBM, and the celebration of Basotho’s 200 years as a nation. In conversation with Informative, Taolana explains that Ngoaha-Kholo is the year of celebration, and that in naming this machine, she considered the past, present and future of our country. “The past is a reflection of the 200 years of our existence, the present celebrates this project we are embarking on and the future is for the improvement of our economy and infrastructure.”

In the Prime Minister’s speech delivered by Hon. Lebona Lephema, The Right Honourable Samuel Matekane underscores some of the benefits that will come about through this project.

“The LHWP collaboration will catalyse growth in fisheries, tourism, irrigation, and other related sectors, all of which are poised to enhance the standards of living for our Basotho and South Africans,” said Hon. Lebona.

“It is, therefore, our responsibility as leaders and communities alike, to secure the preservation of this vital water resource for future generations by protecting its sources, specifically the natural wetlands and the surrounding environment, while aligning with global Environment Social Governance (ESG) sustainability objectives. As we pursue the vision of a peaceful neighbourhood through the advancement of these water resources, the LHWP must stand as a shining example of regional integration, demonstrating how collaborative efforts can lead to harmonious co-existence and mutual benefits.”

Adding that their ultimate aspiration, which they hold deeply in their hearts, is to nurture strong, friendly relations and peaceful collaboration between the two countries, ensuring a future where we coexist harmoniously and support each other’s growth.”

The LHDA Board of Directors, Steven Phakisi, reflected on the journey of the LHDA, especially looking at the launch of the 10 year strategy, that commits the organisation to to elevate the livelihoods of all those directly and indirectly connected to the project.

“The Lesotho highlands water project is not merely an infrastructure initiative, it is a strategic enabler for economic growth and a better quality of life. At its heart, the project represents a bold commitment to creating enduring value for the people of Lesotho and our neighbors in South Africa. Today, as we officially launch the Polihali transfer tunnel excavation by TBM, we reaffirm the strategic importance of this project and reiterate our commitment to those ideals of sustainable socio-economic development.”

He further reaffirms that the milestones achieved are not just about technical achievements, but about the people.

“It is about the farmers who will have access to better irrigation, the families who will benefit from reliable water supply, and the many workers whose skills are developed and livelihoods are enhanced through their involvement in this project. As we move forward, let us continue to honor the spirit of partnership and collaboration that has brought us here. The journey ahead remains challenging, but together, with the same resolve and shared vision, we will achieve greatness.”