Botswana President Duma Boko has reaffirmed his country’s commitment to the construction of a major dam on Lesotho’s Makhaleng River, a project aimed at addressing long-term water security for Botswana and neighboring South Africa.
During his second day of a working visit to Lesotho, President Boko inspected the proposed dam site, where geotechnical studies have already begun. The ambitious project, estimated to cost $3 billion, will include a 700-kilometer pipeline capable of delivering 150 million cubic meters of water annually to Botswana and 158 million cubic meters to South African towns along the route.
A Strategic Water Solution
Botswana, facing severe water shortages, has long sought ways to secure sustainable water sources. Feasibility studies confirm that Lesotho’s abundant water resources make it an ideal partner for the initiative. The dam, designed as a double curvature arch structure similar to Lesotho’s Katse Dam, will stand 150 meters high and significantly improve regional water access.
President Boko emphasized the economic and infrastructural benefits, stating:
“The enormity of this project will bring benefits to all the countries involved and should be treated with the seriousness it merits.”
Regional Cooperation and Funding
The African Development Bank has expressed strong support, pledging to cover 90% of the costs through loans and grants if the three nations—Botswana, Lesotho, and South Africa—can raise the remaining 10%.
South Africa is expected to receive 68 million cubic meters of water annually, along with 5 megawatts of electricity generated along the pipeline. President Boko expressed confidence in South Africa’s participation, saying:
“I have not the slightest doubt in my mind that South Africa is also on board and will ensure this project is realized as speedily as possible.”
Urgency Amid Water Scarcity
Botswana’s water demand has already surpassed local supply, with projections indicating shortages could worsen by 2025. Despite previous efforts to mitigate scarcity, the new dam project represents a critical step toward long-term stability.
As the three nations move forward, the Makhaleng Dam stands as a testament to regional cooperation—a vital solution to a pressing crisis.
