Ramaphosa and Lesotho leaders open Senqu Bridge in Mokhotlong

The R2.4 billion structure is part of Phase II of the Lesotho Highlands Water Project.

President Cyril Ramaphosa joined King Letsie III and Prime Minister Samuel Matekane in Mokhotlong, Lesotho, on Wednesday to officially open the Senqu Bridge, a major infrastructure component of the Lesotho Highlands Water Project's second phase.¹²³

The bridge, constructed at an estimated cost of R2.4 billion, measures approximately 825 metres in length and stands 90 metres high.¹ It is the largest of three major bridges being built across the Polihali Reservoir.¹

The structure replaces an existing crossing that will be submerged when the Polihali Dam is impounded.¹ The new bridge is expected to ensure continued access to Mokhotlong, Sani Pass and surrounding areas.¹

The Presidency described the event as a major milestone reflecting the strong partnership between South Africa and Lesotho.¹ The broader project is intended to support the transfer of high-quality water to South Africa, generate hydropower for Lesotho and improve access to potable water, irrigation, fisheries and tourism opportunities.¹

Under Phase II of the Lesotho Highlands Water Project, water transfer volumes are expected to increase from 780 million to 1 270 billion cubic metres per year, while Lesotho's hydropower generation capacity will also be expanded.¹

Ahead of the bridge launch, South Africa's Minister of Water and Sanitation Pemmy Majodina and Lesotho's Minister of Natural Resources Mohlomi Moleko were scheduled to unveil a tunnel boring machine on Monday.¹