A groundbreaking ceremony for the project of the Lesotho Highlands Water Project Phase II, undertaken by POWERCHINA, was held on May 23 in Lesotho.
King Letsie III of Lesotho and South Africa's President Cyril Ramaphosa jointly pressed the button that kickstarted construction.
King Letsie III of Lesotho and South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, press the starting button at the groundbreaking ceremony.
The Lesotho Highlands Water Project is a cross-border water project jointly established and managed by the Lesotho and South African governments, involving a total investment of more than $16 billion.
The first phrase was completed in 2003 and started operating in 2004. The second phrase mainly involves the construction of the Poli Hali Dam, as well as auxiliary dams and cofferdams, including water tunnels from Poli Hali Dam to Katse Dam.
President Ramaphosa told the ceremony that the project was currently the largest investment project in Lesotho by the South African government. On completion, it would not only resolve the water supply issue in South Africa, but also promote the development of water and electricity in Lesotho to the mutual benefit of both countries and their peoples.
The King of Lesotho said the Lesotho Highlands Water Project – as the largest bilateral infrastructure project between the two nations – would further enhance Lesotho's water transmissions to South Africa and help his country to fully utilize its water resources.
The local government also expressed its support for the project, lauding its significance in adding jobs, driving the local economy and improving the lives of its people.
