The Lesotho Highlands Development Authority (LHDA) has announced the successful completion of major maintenance works on the Lesotho Highlands Water Project (LHWP) tunnels. The project, which began in October 2024, concluded in May 2025 and is aimed at securing the long-term functionality of infrastructure serving both Lesotho and South Africa.
Water is now flowing again through the project’s transfer and delivery tunnels. Two of the three turbines at the ‘Muela Hydropower Station have been synchronized and have resumed generating electricity. The station supplies over half of Lesotho’s electricity demand and helps reduce the country’s reliance on imported power.
“This project was never just about stopping the water or power. It was about securing the system for the next 20 to 30 years,” said Reentseng Molapo, LHDA’s Divisional Manager for Development and Operations. “The maintenance was critical to prevent catastrophic failures of the tunnels’ steel linings and to ensure that we continue delivering value to both Lesotho and South Africa.”
The initiative, known as the RAM Plan (Reverse, Assemble, Maintain), was conducted under the campaign slogan, Ho Checha Hoa Ramo Ha Se Ho Baleha, which emphasizes that stepping back is a strategic move for long-term progress.
The project, initially scheduled for completion by March 2025, faced delays due to technical challenges. These included high humidity levels inside the tunnels, increased seepage water requiring extra dewatering, and temperature-related constraints on corrosion protection work. LHDA extended the timeline to prioritize safety and quality.
Work included draining the tunnels, sandblasting and recoating about 20km of steel-lined sections, installing upgraded process controllers, and conducting structural inspections. A Panel of Experts verified that all procedures met required engineering and safety standards.
The M130 million maintenance project created jobs for nearly 300 local workers, mostly from nearby communities. It also contributed to skills development and increased local economic activity.
“We recognize the sacrifice and patience of all stakeholders — from government partners to local communities,” said Molapo. “We can now look forward to resumed benefits, and more importantly, to resilient infrastructure that supports sustainable development across borders.”
With tunnel operations resumed, LHDA will continue monitoring performance and plans to recommission all three turbines at the ‘Muela Hydropower Station in phases. Electricity generation is expected to increase progressively.
