The long-awaited upgrading of the 9.5-kilometre gravel road linking Ha-Paramente, Seboche, Ha-Lebetla, and Khukhune villages in Botha-Bothe to tarred road status is finally becoming a reality, a development set to facilitate access to healthcare, education, and economic opportunities for these remote rural communities.
This came to light this week when the Minister of Public Works and Transport, Neo Matjato Moteane, visited the area to announce the contractor to carry out the construction.
Moteane revealed that the project, part of the government’s broader rural infrastructure programme, will be financed through a M354 million allocation from the national budget.
“This project was initiated two years ago under the leadership of Prime Minister Ntsokoane Matekane,” Minister Moteane said.
“We urge all Basotho to put politics aside and focus on the development work that will improve their lives. If we work together in this spirit, we can achieve meaningful and lasting development for our communities.”
As part of the initiative, the contractor will contribute M150,000 towards community-led development projects. Minister Moteane appealed to residents and local leaders from the two affected constituencies, Hololo and Mechechane, to unite and support the smooth implementation of the road construction.
The minister underscored the importance of reliable access roads to key health facilities, pointing out that Seboche Hospital in Botha-Bothe and Tebellong Hospital in Qacha’s Nek are the only church-owned hospitals in Lesotho still accessible only via gravel roads.
He assured residents that government efforts were already underway to address this, including the construction of a bridge over the Senqu River and a new gravel road leading to Tebellong Hospital.
Speaking at the same event, Lejone Mpotjoane, the Member of Parliament for Hololo and Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Relations, described the road as the fulfillment of promises made by himself and the Prime Minister.
“Many people did not believe this project would ever happen. We are here today to prove that our promise is being fulfilled,” Mpotjoane said.
He further announced that another road connecting Ha Mphoroane to Tiping will soon be developed, a move expected to strengthen connectivity within the region.
Mpotjoane encouraged residents seeking temporary employment on the project to register with local committees to ensure better management of wages and preparation for future opportunities.
He also urged close cooperation with the contractor and revealed that a clean water supply project will soon be launched in nearby villages.
“Our people have suffered for too long. All Basotho deserve improved public services, and it is the government’s commitment to make that a reality,” he added.
Meanwhile, Jane Lekunya, MP for Mechechane, expressed deep appreciation for the project, saying it would drastically improve travel conditions and access to healthcare services.
“For years, travel here has been difficult, with even vehicle owners refusing to drive on these roads. This development brings real hope,” Lekunya said.
He encouraged the contractor to prioritise hiring local workers during the construction phase, while acknowledging that certain specialised tasks might require outside expertise. Lekunya also urged authorities to handle compensation issues promptly for residents whose fields or gardens might be affected by the construction.
Once completed, the 9.5km gravel road is expected to cut travel time, enhance access to essential services, and improve safety and mobility for the people of Botha-Bothe, marking a major milestone in the government’s ongoing drive toward inclusive rural development.
Summary
- 5-kilometre gravel road linking Ha-Paramente, Seboche, Ha-Lebetla, and Khukhune villages in Botha-Bothe to tarred road status is finally becoming a reality, a development set to facilitate access to healthcare, education, and economic opportunities for these remote rural communities.
- Speaking at the same event, Lejone Mpotjoane, the Member of Parliament for Hololo and Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Relations, described the road as the fulfillment of promises made by himself and the Prime Minister.
- 5km gravel road is expected to cut travel time, enhance access to essential services, and improve safety and mobility for the people of Botha-Bothe, marking a major milestone in the government's ongoing drive toward inclusive rural development.
Seabata Mahao is a general news reporter with special focus on Business and Sports. Started working at Newsday in 2021. Working in a team with a shared goal is what I enjoy most and that gives me the motivation to work under any environment leading to growth.
