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BD Reports that Dispute Between South Africa and Lesotho Threatens Water Project

A diplomatic dispute could further postpone the development of a multi-billion dollar initiative in Lesotho, which is essential to prevent a water crisis in South Africa, as reported by Business Day, referencing legal documents and other sources.

Lesotho has expressed its objections to the reappointment of Tente Tente as the chief executive officer of the Lesotho Highlands Development Authority, a body established by both countries in 1986 that oversees the supply of water to South Africa’s economic center, Gauteng, according to the Johannesburg-based publication.

Lesotho, home to approximately 3 million people and entirely surrounded by South Africa, plays a critical role in supplying water to its neighbor, especially as climate change intensifies drought conditions in the most industrialized nation on the continent.

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The mountainous kingdom holds Tente accountable for delays and the increasing costs associated with a R53 billion ($3 billion) project aimed at constructing a new dam and a tunnel to transport water to South Africa, the article stated. South Africa contends that Tente is not the sole contributor to the delays and overspending, pointing to environmental factors, political dynamics, and other issues, the report noted.

Lesotho’s Attorney-General Rapelang Motsieloa and Natural Resources Minister Mohlomi Moleko have submitted a court request to annul the appointment, while the South African government is seeking a resolution to the ongoing conflict, as per the newspaper’s findings.

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