Matekane Handover of M16 Million Peka Electrification Project Brings Power to 554 Households

Prime Minister Sam Matekane has officially handed over a major electrification project in Peka valued at M16 million, marking a significant step in expanding access to electricity across rural communities. The project connects 554 households across the villages of Ha-Ralikariki, Ha-Letsika, Ha-Mpeke, Ha-Tsea, Ha-Motako and Ha-‘Marana. It forms part of the government’s broader national plan to achieve universal electricity access by 2030. The initiative reflects continued investment in infrastructure aimed at improving living standards and supporting economic development in underserved areas. The handover ceremony highlighted the government’s focus on delivering essential services directly to communities that have historically lacked reliable energy access.

Speaking during the handover event, Prime Minister Matekane emphasized the transformative impact of electricity on daily life and economic activity. He noted that access to power will help improve livelihoods by enabling small business growth, enhancing education outcomes and strengthening healthcare services. He explained that electrification allows schools to extend learning hours and improve access to digital tools, which supports better academic performance. In healthcare facilities, electricity is expected to improve service delivery through reliable lighting, refrigeration of medicines and better functioning of medical equipment. He stressed that infrastructure development remains a key pillar in the government’s strategy to drive long-term economic progress and reduce inequality across communities.

The Prime Minister also called on residents of Peka to take responsibility for protecting the newly installed infrastructure. He warned against vandalism and theft, noting that damage to electrical equipment can delay progress and increase costs for both government and communities. He encouraged local leadership and residents to work together in safeguarding the project to ensure its long-term sustainability. His message focused on community ownership as a critical factor in the success of public infrastructure projects. He further highlighted that the benefits of electrification can only be fully realized if the systems remain intact and functional over time.

Principal Chieftainess of Peka, Pontšo Mathealira, welcomed the electrification project and expressed gratitude to the government and local community for their support. She described the project as a major milestone for the region, noting that access to electricity will improve daily life and create new opportunities for residents. She emphasized that electrification will make the area more attractive to investors, which could lead to job creation and increased economic activity. She also highlighted the importance of improved access to essential services, including education and healthcare, which depend heavily on reliable energy. Her remarks reflected strong local support for development initiatives aimed at transforming rural communities.

The introduction of electricity to the six villages is expected to have a wide-reaching impact on both social and economic development in the region. Households will benefit from improved lighting, safer living conditions and the ability to use electrical appliances that enhance convenience and productivity. Small businesses in the area are also expected to grow as electricity enables longer operating hours and the use of modern equipment. The project is aligned with national development goals that prioritize infrastructure expansion as a driver of inclusive growth. It also supports efforts to reduce the gap between urban and rural communities in terms of access to essential services.

The M16 million investment in Peka reflects ongoing government efforts to expand electrification coverage across Lesotho as part of a long-term development strategy. By connecting hundreds of households to the national grid, the project contributes directly to improving quality of life and economic opportunity in rural areas. It also reinforces the importance of collaboration between government, traditional leadership and local communities in delivering sustainable development outcomes. The emphasis on infrastructure protection underscores the need for shared responsibility in maintaining public assets. As electrification continues to expand, projects like the one in Peka are expected to play a key role in achieving national energy access targets and supporting broader economic transformation.