The Lesotho Highlands Water Project is a major bi-national initiative between Lesotho and South Africa that plays a crucial role in providing water and electricity to both countries. This large infrastructure project was designed to capture and transfer water from the mountainous regions of Lesotho to the industrial heartland of South Africa, particularly the Gauteng province, which includes Johannesburg and Pretoria. The project also generates hydroelectric power for Lesotho, making it an important source of renewable energy.
The project began in the late 1980s and has been carried out in multiple phases. It involves the construction of dams, tunnels, reservoirs, and power stations across Lesotho and South Africa. Some of the key infrastructure includes the Katse Dam and Mohale Dam in Lesotho, which serve as the primary reservoirs capturing water from the highlands. From these dams, water flows through a network of tunnels that run through mountains, eventually reaching the Vaal Dam in South Africa. This dam supplies water to millions of people and supports various industries in the region.
One of the unique aspects of the Lesotho Highlands Water Project is its dual purpose. Not only does it supply water, but it also helps generate electricity for Lesotho. The Muela Hydropower Plant, part of the project, uses water from the dams to produce power, providing a significant portion of Lesotho’s electricity needs. This helps reduce the country’s reliance on imported energy and supports local economic development.
Each year, the project transfers over 400 million cubic meters of water to South Africa, making it a vital component of the country’s water security. Gauteng is South Africa’s economic hub, and its dense population and numerous industries require a steady supply of water. Without the Lesotho Highlands Water Project, meeting this demand would be far more challenging, especially during dry seasons or droughts.
The project is managed jointly by the Lesotho Highlands Development Authority (LHDA) in Lesotho and the Trans Caledon Tunnel Authority (TCTA) in South Africa. This partnership is a strong example of cooperation between the two countries. Both authorities oversee the maintenance, operations, and upgrades needed to keep the system running safely and efficiently.
Maintenance work is an ongoing necessity for the project. Recently, from October 1, 2024, to May 2025, the tunnels were closed for essential repairs. The work was led by teams from both South Africa and Lesotho. While the South African side completed its repairs on schedule, delays on the Lesotho side extended the maintenance period. Once the work was finished, water flow resumed, bringing relief to the water supply systems in Gauteng and the Free State provinces.
This large-scale maintenance highlights the importance of careful management and collaboration. Officials from the Department of Water and Sanitation closely monitor the water as it travels through the tunnels to ensure it moves safely and steadily. The infrastructure is complex and requires careful upkeep to prevent interruptions that could affect millions of people and businesses.
The Lesotho Highlands Water Project also brings environmental and social considerations. The construction and operation of dams and tunnels have involved relocating communities and managing ecological impacts. Both countries work together to address these challenges through environmental management and community support programs. These efforts aim to balance the benefits of water supply and energy generation with the need to protect local environments and livelihoods.
Over the years, the project has proven to be a model for regional cooperation in managing shared natural resources. Water is a critical and often scarce resource in Southern Africa, and the ability of Lesotho and South Africa to work together benefits both nations. Lesotho gains from electricity generation and economic opportunities, while South Africa secures a reliable water supply for its growing population and industries.
Looking ahead, the project plans to continue with further phases to increase capacity and improve infrastructure. These developments will help meet the future demands of the region’s growing population and changing climate. As water resources become more strained, such collaborative projects are essential for sustainable development.
The Lesotho Highlands Water Project is not just an engineering achievement but a symbol of partnership and shared responsibility. It demonstrates how two neighboring countries can come together to solve complex challenges and provide vital services to their people. The steady flow of water from the highlands of Lesotho to South Africa’s industrial centers supports lives, industries, and economies, making the project a cornerstone of Southern Africa’s water and energy security.
