South Africa and Lesotho inaugurate the Senku Bridge to improve transport between the two countries.
Senku Bridge opens between Lesotho and South Africa
Written by: Ayman Ragab
South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, King III of Lesotho, and Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Lesotho, Samuel Matekane, will inaugurate tomorrow. Senku Bridge In Mokhotlung, Kingdom of Lesotho.
The opening of the bridge represents a significant milestone in the second phase of the Lesotho Highlands Water Project, and is a testament to the strong partnership and close cooperation between the Kingdom of Lesotho and the Republic of South Africa.
Water security and economic development
The project represents a pioneering model of bilateral cooperation, making a significant contribution to regional water security and economic development. 
The successful completion of the Senku Bridge also represents the replacement of the existing bridge, which will be submerged once the Polehali Dam is built. The new bridge will ensure continuous access to Mokhotlong, Sani Pass, and the surrounding areas.
Water transport to South Africa
In addition, the project will facilitate transportation high quality water To South Africa, generating hydroelectric power for Lesotho, supporting the provision of drinking water, irrigation and fisheries, and promoting tourism.
In the second phase, the project will increase the volume of water transported from 780 million to 1.27 billion cubic meters per year, while simultaneously boosting hydroelectric power production in Lesotho.
This would enhance the Kingdom's progress towards achieving energy security and reduce its dependence on imports. The bridge would also be a key factor in long-term regional continuity, connectivity, and integration.
largest bridge
The Senku Bridge, built at a cost of approximately 2.4 billion rand, is the largest of the three main bridges being constructed over the Polehali Reservoir. It is about 825 meters long and 90 meters high.
Prior to the official opening, South Africa's Minister of Water and Sanitation, Pimi Magodina, and her Lesotho counterpart, Minister of Natural Resources, Mohlome Moleko, will unveil a tunnel boring machine (TBM) on April 20, 2026. This state-of-the-art machine will be used to excavate a 38-kilometer tunnel connecting the Bulehali and Katse reservoirs.
The President will be accompanied by Minister Magudina, her deputy, Mr. David Mahlobo, and the Deputy Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Mr. Alvin Potts.
