President Cyril Ramaphosa has arrived at Moshoeshoe I International Airport in Lesotho ahead of the historic launch of the Senqu Bridge in Mokhotlong. The event taking place today marks a major milestone in the long-standing partnership between South Africa and Lesotho under the Lesotho Highlands Water Project.
President Cyril Ramaphosa has touched down in Maseru this morning to co-launch the Senqu Bridge with King Letsie III and Prime Minister Samuel Matekane. The ceremony taking place today in Mokhotlong represents a significant achievement in one of Africa’s most successful cross-border infrastructure projects.
The Senqu Bridge is a cornerstone of Phase II of the Lesotho Highlands Water Project (LHWP). At 825 metres long and 90 metres high, it replaces the existing bridge that will soon be submerged by the rising waters of the Polihali Dam.
Economic and Strategic Impact
The bridge guarantees year-round access to Mokhotlong, Sani Pass and surrounding communities. For South Africa, it supports increased water transfers to Gauteng and other provinces. For Lesotho, it brings new hydropower capacity and supports tourism and local economic growth.
Phase II of the LHWP will raise annual water transfers from 780 million to 1 270 billion cubic metres while boosting Lesotho’s hydropower output — a win for both nations.
Today’s Programme
The official events include a ribbon-cutting and walkabout at the bridge site at 11h00, followed by the formal programme at the nearby sports field at 12h45.
President Ramaphosa is accompanied by senior ministers, underlining the importance South Africa places on this joint achievement.
President Cyril Ramaphosa has pledged R30 million in humanitarian assistance to the Kingdom of Lesotho to strengthen its response to HIV and TB. The funding comes at a critical time as Lesotho faces a sharp decline in international humanitarian support.
The announcement was made today during the official launch of the Senqu Bridge in Mokhotlong, where President Ramaphosa joined King Letsie III and Prime Minister Samuel Matekane. The bridge is a flagship project under Phase II of the Lesotho Highlands Water Project.
Addressing a Growing Health Crisis
Lesotho has one of the highest HIV prevalence rates in the world. The country also continues to battle a significant TB burden. With reduced international funding, the R30 million from South Africa will help maintain essential testing, treatment and prevention programmes, ensuring thousands of patients continue to receive life-saving care.
President Ramaphosa emphasised that South Africa remains committed to supporting its neighbour during this challenging period, describing the assistance as part of the broader spirit of solidarity between the two nations.
Senqu Bridge: A Symbol of Enduring Partnership
The aid pledge was delivered on the same day the two countries celebrated the opening of the Senqu Bridge — a major infrastructure achievement under the Lesotho Highlands Water Project. The bridge will improve connectivity, support tourism, and ensure continued access to communities once the Polihali Dam is impounded.
The project also delivers increased water security to South Africa while generating hydropower for Lesotho, demonstrating how the two countries continue to find practical ways to support each other’s development.
A Message of Regional Solidarity
Today’s events highlight the strength of the relationship between South Africa and Lesotho. From water and energy infrastructure to health and humanitarian support, the two nations continue to work closely together to address shared challenges and create opportunities for their citizens.
As Lesotho grapples with declining international aid, South Africa’s timely contribution sends a clear message: regional neighbours stand ready to support each other when global assistance falls short.
A Lasting Legacy
The Senqu Bridge is more than infrastructure — it is a symbol of successful regional cooperation that will benefit communities on both sides of the border for generations to come.
