The Portfolio Committee on Natural Resources, Tourism, and Land Cluster has announced plans to revisit four villages to assess the progress of development projects intended to improve the lives of local communities, following complaints regarding the Lesotho Highlands Development Authority (LHDA) initiatives. The committee’s decision to return to these villages comes after a report on petitions filed by Ha Makhalanyane, Ha Mokhathi, Ha Thafeng, and Khorong Ha Nchela villages was presented for consideration and adoption by the House.
Mr. Moeketsi Mots’oane, Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee, revealed that the committee, together with representatives from the LHDA and the community of Ha Makhalanyane, reached an agreement on several key development initiatives aimed at benefiting the villagers. According to Mr. Mots’oane, over M8 million has been allocated to ensure that villagers who were impacted by the LHDA project are connected to electricity, a major need for these communities.
Additionally, it was agreed that Ha Thafeng will receive over M1 million for the construction of a much-needed road, an essential infrastructure development that will improve access to the area and enhance overall connectivity. These efforts form part of the broader commitment to ensure that the communities affected by the LHDA’s major projects are not left behind in terms of infrastructure and development benefits.
The committee’s visit to the affected villages is part of an ongoing effort to monitor the fulfillment of promises made to these communities. The LHDA has faced criticism in the past for failing to meet certain commitments regarding the development and compensation of affected communities, leading to numerous petitions. The Portfolio Committee’s oversight role will play a crucial part in ensuring that these outstanding issues are addressed.
As the committee plans its re-visit, there is an underlying hope that these development projects will not only provide immediate relief to the affected villagers but also create a foundation for long-term progress and improved living standards. The review of these projects is expected to take place soon, with the committee and the LHDA keen to demonstrate progress on the commitments made.
The outcome of this re-visit will be closely watched by the affected villages and the broader public, as it will reflect the government’s ability to fulfill its promises and improve the lives of those impacted by large-scale infrastructure projects like the Lesotho Highlands Water Project.
