. . . Rare female hydrologist shares her journey
By Thoboloko Ntšonyane
MASERU
‘Matšolo Migwi is one of the few hydrogeologists in the country.
Growing up in Roma, she went to St Mary’s High School for her secondary school education and dreamed of becoming a medical doctor, but fate had other plans.
Migwi is among the few dedicated hydrogeologists helping the country access its precious water resources.
\She wakes up every morning to help ensure communities have enough clean water, a mission she describes as the most fulfilling part of her work.
She had initially applied for the Medicine programme but was not admitted. After completing the International Baccalaureate at Machabeng College, she enrolled in the BSc programme at the National University of Lesotho (NUL). It was during this time that a friend encouraged her to explore Applied Environmental Science, sparking her passion for hydrogeology.
She then enrolled in an Honours Degree in Geohydrology at the University of the Free State while working at the Department of Water Affairs, in order to deepen her knowledge and expertise in the water sector.
Following her graduation from NUL, she took up a teaching post at Bonhomme High School in Mohale’s Hoek, where she taught science subjects. An opportunity later arose for her to join the Lesotho Highlands Development Authority (LHDA) internship programme which happens during the holidays when schools are closed. While on internship at LHDA, she was placed in the Water Department.
While working in the civil service under the Department of Water, she was presented with an opportunity to pursue an MSc in Monitoring Water Quality at the University College Cork in Ireland.
Hydrogeologists study underground water. They look at where the water comes from, how it moves through the ground, and how clean or safe it is to use. Their work helps people find water for drinking, farming, and other national socio-economic needs, and they also help protect it from getting polluted.
Hydrogeologists play a crucial role in addressing some of the major challenges the world faces today, including securing sustainable water supplies, supporting food and energy production, protecting the environment, and tackling climate change.
Asked whether she ever felt out of place when joining the profession, she admitted that she did. She gave the example of her time at the University of the Free State (UFS), where there were only three women in a class of eighteen. She acknowledged that not many women are in this field.
“Water is like food – there’s never a time when you won’t need it,” she said.
She explained that sometimes, even clients in the field call expecting to hear a man’s voice. Her work includes drilling into the ground to extract water.
“We survey and assess the availability and presence of water. After the survey, we carry out design work and drill properly, then ensure the water meets quality standards before it reaches consumers,” Migwi explained.
She said it took time and trust from both communities and her colleagues in the field to prove that she was equal to the task – but over time, her work spoke for itself.
“Even during training sessions, you mostly find male counterparts in attendance,” she added.
Asked about some of her career highlights, she said one of them was starting a drilling company, Aqua Wells Drilling, with her husband, who is also in the same field. In 2005, they procured their own drilling machine for the business.
“My job is fulfilling because it involves providing water to the people. Seeing communities celebrate when water is finally found is a joyful moment. Being able to deliver water to schools and clinics is a truly heartwarming experience,” she said.
She described the field as both fulfilling and important to the country. “We know that water is life, and managing it properly requires trained experts in this field. I would encourage children to study and pursue careers that ensure water security; it’s definitely a field worth joining.”