chronicle of trans-formative in the Kingdom country

big developments

1. Large achievements in Lesotho A revolutionary wave of development has swept across many sectors of Lesotho's economy, reshaping its social and economic fabric. The country has adopted a trajectory of progress, from the enormous accomplishments of the Lesotho Highlands Water Project, which supported water supplies and hydroelectric power generation, to the prosperous diamond mines that enriched the nation's coffers and local people. Road networks and internet connectivity have created new avenues for wealth in infrastructure, and efforts in tourism and innovative agriculture demonstrate a dedication to sustainable growth.

2. We have water projects such as LHWP Lesotho Highlands Water Project(LHWP) is the largest bi-national infrastructure project between Lesotho and South Africa. It involves the construction of an intricate network tunnels and dams to divert water from the mountains of Lesotho to South Africa. It provides water for South Africa, money and hydroelectricity for Lesotho. LHWP is responsible for the project’s overall implementations works such as dams, tunnels, power stations and infrastructures on Lesotho’s boarders. The project is being undertaken in phases, and phase one was completed in 2004 and was intended to supply water to the neighbouring country.

3. Cont. Katse dam Phase 1A included construction of the 185m-high double curvature concrete arch Katse Dam in the central Maluti Mountains and the 72MW Muela hydropower station. The dam has a storage capacity of 1,950 million m³ and a spillway discharge of 6,252m³/s. Phase 1A also involved building a 45km transfer tunnel and a 37km delivery tunnel. And the source of the hydropower energy is based in Muela, and it supplies the Lesotho country with electricity

4. Lesotho also has Mining sector Diamond Mining: Lesotho is known for its diamond mines, particularly the Letšeng diamond mine , According to www.letsengdiamonds.co.ls , the mine is situated high in the Maluti Mountains in Lesotho, Southern Africa, and holds a lease granted by Lesotho government in 1999. So far it has produced the top quality diamonds with the highest percentage of large (10.8 carat) it has the top five carats, namely, The Lesotho Legend, Lets’eng star, Light of Lets’eng, Lets’eng legacy, and, Lesotho promise

5. other minerals in Lesotho include Apart from diamonds, the country's main mineral resources have been identified as base metals, clays, dimension stone, sand, gravel and uranium . The lack of initiative to extract other minerals commercially is mainly attributed to the inadequacy of infrastructure and finances . have occurred to a limited extent for internal consumption .   Reserves of  bituminous   shale and coal have also been identified.

6. Apart from mining Lesotho has infrastructure developments Roads and Transport: Lesotho has undertaken projects to improve its road infrastructure, including the construction and maintenance of roads connecting remote areas and urban centers. This infrastructure development is crucial for facilitating trade, transportation, and access to services . Sani Pass is a mountain pass located to the west of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa, on the road between Underberg, KwaZulu-Natal and Mokhotlong, Lesotho. The Sani Pass road was only accessible to all-terrain vehicles, which inhibited economic development in the north-east of the Kingdom of Lesotho. The Sani Pass road fulfils an important international trade, service and tourism function. The South African Government commenced with the upgrade of the Sani Pass road between Underberg and the Lesotho border .

7. Energy Infrastructure Apart from hydroelectric power generated through projects like the LHWP, Lesotho is exploring renewable energy sources such as solar and wind power to enhance its energy security and sustainability . According to LNDC,  Lesotho Energy Master Plan estimated solar energy at an annual average of 7,520 MJ/m2 per day on horizontal surface. As part of the national sustainable development policy, one of the main objectives of the government in the energy sector is to promote the adoption of solar energy technologies .

8. Energy infrastructure development

9. Agriculture and live stock in Lesotho Lesotho's irrigation projects boost farming productivity, aiding smallholder farmers and bolstering food security. Livestock farming, especially of sheep and goats, is pivotal for rural livelihoods, with initiatives enhancing breeding and disease control for economic growth . A new financing agreement aimed at improving the livelihoods of wool and mohair farmers was signed recently by IFAD and the Kingdom of Lesotho by correspondence . 160,000 poor rural households in Lesotho will benefit from new financing for a project that will boost food security and nutrition, mitigate the impact of climate change and strengthen livelihoods for greater income.

10. Agriculture and live stock in Lesotho Farming Wool & mohair

11. End of presentation Pride and hope are sparked by Lesotho's incredible advancements in mining, infrastructure, agriculture, and other fields. It is inspiring to see how resilient and determined the country is to overcome obstacles, especially given its rugged geography. These advancements demonstrate Lesotho's steadfast dedication to enhancing the quality of life for its citizens in addition to representing economic gain . Lesotho gives promise for a better future for future generations as it pushes forward, embracing innovation and sustainability. Thank you By Nthabeleng MPHOCHANE

12. Reference ACCESSED AT: 3 APRIL 2024 https :// www.water-technology.net/projects/lesotho-highlands/ [ONLINE] https:// www.letsengdiamonds [ONLINE ].co.ls/corporate-profile/ACCESSED AT: 5 APRIL 2024 ACCESSED AT: 5 APRIL 2024 https :// www.zutari.com/project/upgrading-of-the-road-between-mokhotlong-and-the-sani-pass/ [ONLINE] https :// www.lndc.org.ls/content/solar-energy