Ramaphosa to Attend Opening of Senqu Bridge in Lesotho, Marking Major Infrastructure Milestone

President Cyril Ramaphosa is set to travel to Lesotho this week to join King Letsie III and Prime Minister Samuel Matekane for the official opening of the Senqu Bridge in Mokhotlong—an event that underscores deepening cooperation between the two neighbouring countries.

According to the Presidency, the ceremony scheduled for Wednesday represents a significant milestone under Phase II of the Lesotho Highlands Water Project (LHWP), one of the largest bi-national infrastructure initiatives in the region.

Strategic infrastructure for regional development

The Senqu Bridge has been constructed to replace an existing crossing that will be submerged once the Polihali Dam becomes operational. The new bridge will ensure uninterrupted access to key areas such as Mokhotlong, Sani Pass and surrounding communities.

Valued at approximately R2.4 billion, the bridge is the largest of three major crossings being developed across the Polihali Reservoir. It spans about 825 metres in length and rises 90 metres above the valley, making it a critical piece of infrastructure for connectivity and economic activity in the region.

Boosting water security and energy generation

Phase II of the Lesotho Highlands Water Project is expected to significantly enhance water transfer to South Africa, increasing volumes from 780 million cubic metres to approximately 1.27 billion cubic metres per year.

Beyond water supply, the project will also expand Lesotho's hydropower generation capacity, contributing to energy security. Additional benefits include improved access to potable water, irrigation, fisheries and tourism opportunities, particularly for communities in remote highland areas.

Key developments ahead of the launch

In the lead-up to the bridge inauguration, South Africa's Minister of Water and Sanitation, Pemmy Majodina, and Lesotho's Minister of Natural Resources, Mohlomi Moleko, are scheduled to unveil a Tunnel Boring Machine on Monday.

The machine will be used to construct a 38-kilometre transfer tunnel linking the Polihali and Katse reservoirs—another critical component of the project's infrastructure network.

High-level delegation and programme

President Ramaphosa will be accompanied by Minister Majodina, Deputy Minister of Water and Sanitation David Mahlobo, and Deputy Minister of International Relations and Cooperation Alvin Botes.

The official launch programme will begin with a ribbon-cutting ceremony and walkabout at 11:00, followed by a formal event at 12:45 at a nearby sports field in Mokhotlong.

Strengthening bilateral ties

The event highlights the longstanding partnership between South Africa and Lesotho, with the LHWP continuing to serve as a model of regional cooperation in water resource management, infrastructure development and shared economic growth.

As the project advances, both countries stand to benefit from improved resource security and expanded opportunities for development.

Tags: Cyril Ramaphosa, Senqu Bridge, Lesotho Highlands Water Project, Mokhotlong, Polihali Dam, water security, hydropower, South Africa Lesotho relations, infrastructure development, regional cooperation