THE LESOTHO-BOTSWANA WATER TRANSFER PROJECT
BRIEF PROJECT DESCRIPTION
| The objective of project is to transfer water from Lesotho to Botswana through South Africa, to meet water supply demands in Botswana, the Lowlands of Lesotho and en route parts of South Africa.
A desktop study undertaken in 2015 by the three countries indicated that Botswana, which is arid, will experience bulk water shortages around 2025 unless a major new water source is developed. The expected water shortages could worsen due to climate change. On the other hand, Lesotho has relative abundance of high quality water. Noting that the two countries are in the Orange-Senqu River Basin, and party to ORASECOM there is an opportunity to transfer water from Lesotho to Botswana through South Africa. In addition to meeting water demands the project also contributes to building resilience to impacts of climate change in the three countries. |
The long-term impact of the project will be improved climate-resilient socio-economic development and poverty eradication in the basin. The development of the L-BWT will result in an improved standard of living, inclusive growth, enhanced preparedness and adaptation to deal with vulnerability to climate change impact thus ensuring long-term water security in the basin.
Barriers Addressed
The Orange-Senqu River Basin poses complex water management challenges for safeguarding future water security. The central theme of ensuring water security under increased hydrological variability compounded by climate change impact remains the key water resources management problem. There are multiple problems related to deteriorating environmental conditions and lack of inclusive water resources development in some parts of the basin in order to support economic growth and alleviate poverty. The solutions to these problems are to be addressed through optimisation of the water resources development based on balanced economic, social and environmental considerations.
PROJECT COMPONENTS & OUTPUTS
WORK AREAS
The Lesotho Botswana Water Transfer Project is implemented in three countries: Botswana, Lesotho and South Africa. The ambitious project will include the construction of a dam in Lesotho, supply water for hydro-electric power, domestic and agricultural use over a distance of 700 kilometres (km); incur costs of approximately $2 billion; and work across several populations and languages. It is currently concluding the pre-feasibility study phase.
Contacts
L-BWT Project Management Office
Alliance Park, 4 Bowker Road, Maseru, Kingdom of Lesotho
Tel: +266 22314168
Email: pmo@orasecom.org