A dispute over CEO Tente Tente’s reappointment may delay a crucial water project in Lesotho, essential for addressing a water crisis in South Africa. Lesotho’s government blames Tente for project delays and cost overruns, while South Africa points to additional contributing factors.
A diplomatic disagreement between South Africa and Lesotho could jeopardize a vital multi-billion-dollar water project intended to alleviate a looming water crisis in South Africa. Reports indicate that Lesotho has contested the reappointment of Tente Tente as CEO of the Lesotho Highlands Development Authority, a joint body established in 1986, which is crucial for supplying water to South Africa’s Gauteng province.
Lesotho, a landlocked nation with approximately 3 million inhabitants, plays an essential role in supplying water to its neighboring country, particularly as climate change escalates drought conditions in South Africa, the continent’s most developed economy. Lesotho officials attribute the rising costs and delays of a significant 53 billion-rand ($3 billion) project, which involves constructing a new dam and tunnel to transport water, to Tente’s leadership.
Conversely, the South African government contends that Tente should not bear sole responsibility for the setbacks and overruns, as various environmental and political factors also contribute to the situation. In response to these challenges, Lesotho’s Attorney-General, Rapelang Motsieloa, and Natural Resources Minister, Mohlomi Moleko, have initiated legal proceedings to contest Tente’s reappointment, while South African authorities seek to find a resolution to the ongoing dispute.
The Lesotho Highlands Development Authority was created as a collaborative effort to manage the water supply from Lesotho to South Africa, specifically targeting the water needs of the Gauteng province. As climate change impacts water resources across the region, the efficient management of this project becomes increasingly crucial for ensuring water security for South Africa. The current dispute over Tente Tente’s position as CEO highlights the interconnectedness of diplomacy and resource management in addressing regional challenges related to climate and infrastructure.
In summary, the diplomatic quarrel between South Africa and Lesotho poses a serious threat to the timely completion of a pivotal water project worth billions. The disagreements surrounding leadership, accountability, and project management reflect broader environmental and political challenges that both nations must navigate. Effective cooperation is essential to ensure that the water needs of South Africa are met amidst rising climate uncertainties.
Original Source: www.bnnbloomberg.ca
