A diplomatic conflict over the reappointment of Tente Tente as CEO of the Lesotho Highlands Development Authority may delay a multi-billion dollar water project in Lesotho, critical for addressing water shortages in South Africa. Lesotho blames Tente for project delays, while South Africa cites multiple contributing factors.
A diplomatic dispute is threatening to delay a crucial water project in Lesotho, vital for alleviating South Africa’s impending water crisis, as reported by Business Day. The conflict arose after Lesotho objected to the reappointment of Tente Tente as CEO of the Lesotho Highlands Development Authority. This agency, established in 1986, holds the responsibility of supplying water to Gauteng, South Africa’s economic heartland.
With a population of nearly 3 million, Lesotho plays an essential role in providing water to South Africa, particularly as climate change-induced drought poses increasing challenges. The government of Lesotho has attributed project delays and escalating costs, projected at 53 billion rand ($3 billion) for a new dam and tunnel project, to Mr. Tente’s management. In contrast, South Africa contends that multiple factors, including environmental issues and political dynamics, contribute to these complications.
Currently, Lesotho’s Attorney-General Rapelang Motsieloa and Natural Resources Minister Mohlomi Moleko are pursuing legal action to revoke Mr. Tente’s appointment. Meanwhile, South Africa is actively seeking a resolution to this diplomatic standoff, emphasizing the urgency of the cooperative water management between the two nations.
The Lesotho Highlands Water Project, a collaborative initiative between Lesotho and South Africa, aims to harness and supply water from the Lesotho Highlands to address water scarcity in South Africa’s Gauteng province. As a landlocked nation surrounded by South Africa, Lesotho’s geographical position makes it a pivotal water source, especially during times of drought exacerbated by climate change. The governance of this project is overseen by the Lesotho Highlands Development Authority, which has faced challenges in leadership and project execution, contributing to rising tensions between the two countries.
In conclusion, the diplomatic row surrounding the managerial appointment within the Lesotho Highlands Development Authority threatens to delay critical water infrastructure projects. Given the essential role of this initiative in combating water scarcity in South Africa, resolutions to the leadership dispute are urgently needed. The ongoing legal actions and government discussions indicate the complexities involved in managing transboundary water resources and the necessity for collaboration between Lesotho and South Africa.
Original Source: www.bnnbloomberg.ca
