Botswana’s President Duma Boko is fast-tracking a major cross-border water project with Lesotho, aiming to bolster his country’s long-term water security. During a working visit to the Kingdom, Boko affirmed his commitment to constructing a new dam on the Makhaleng River.
The initiative is part of a broader strategy to tap into Lesotho’s significant water resources. Feasibility studies have already confirmed the viability of the dam project. The plan includes the construction of a 700-kilometer pipeline, known as the Lowlands water transfer scheme.
Once completed, the pipeline is projected to deliver 150 million cubic meters of water annually to Botswana. Additionally, it will supply 158 million cubic meters of water per year to South African towns along its route, highlighting the regional nature of the collaboration.
The move comes as Southern Africa faces increasing pressure on its water supplies due to climate change and population growth. By investing in this project, Botswana aims to secure a vital resource and strengthen its economic resilience. The project also signals closer cooperation between the three nations on critical infrastructure.
