In a significant move to address ongoing labour disputes and improve working conditions at the Polihali Dam construction site, the Lesotho Highlands Development Authority (LHDA) has officially launched the Polihali Bargaining Forum Constitution.
The initiative, which is the very first in the country, aims to create a structured platform for dialogue between employers and workers’ representatives, thereby minimising industrial actions that have previously led to construction delays.
The platform will serve as a negotiation and engagement mechanism aimed at fostering constructive dialogue between contractors and trade unions on matters of mutual and material interest, including workers’ wages, health and safety, and general working conditions.
Given the recent history of contentious disputes and strikes actions at the project site, establishment of the Polihali Bargaining Forum marks a significant step towards improving labour relations within the second phase of the Lesotho Highlands Water Project (LHWP).
The forum is expected to reduce industrial action and promote a culture of mutual respect and cooperation between workers and employers by providing a structured space for dialogue and promoting dispute resolution.
The forum ensures that both the contractors and their workers have a voice, which fosters mutual respect and better working relationships, through open dialogue, robust engagement, and better understanding on each other’s priorities, as well as terms and conditions of employment.
The launch of the forum, which took place on February 6 at the Polihali offices in Mokhotlong, was marked by the signing of its constitution by different stakeholders led by the LHDA, main contractors who are the employers, and the workers’ representatives among others.
“The LHDA is deeply grateful for the commitment demonstrated by both our contractors and the trade unions in working to bring this forum to life, and jointly developing that constitution that guides it.
“We are further grateful to the Ministry of Natural Resources, and the Ministry of Labour and Employment for their dedicated support in our work, and in officially launching the Forum. We look forward to open, transparent and equitable engagement between the two parties to this forum, where we will only participate as an observer in Forum sittings,” LHDA said in a statement.
A platform for constructive dialogue
The Polihali Bargaining Forum is a collaborative effort involving the LHDA, trade unions, and the main contractors engaged in Phase II of the Lesotho Highlands Water Project (LHWP). Its primary objective is to facilitate discussions on industrial issues that have historically disrupted operations.
Common disputes have revolved around unequal salaries, unfavorable working conditions, transportation challenges, and substandard meals provided to workers.
Hlalefang Seoaholimo, the General Secretary of the Lesotho Workers’ Association (LEWA), expressed optimism about the forum’s potential impact:
“We are pleased to be part of this platform, through which we hope to ensure that employers treat and pay employees fairly, regardless of them performing the same tasks.”
The establishment of the Polihali Bargaining Forum is timely, coinciding with the enactment of the Labour Act, 2024, which came into effect on April 2, 2024. This Act consolidates all employment and labour laws in Lesotho, replacing the Labour Code Order of 1992.
One of its key objectives is to promote collective bargaining and provide frameworks for employers and trade unions to negotiate employment conditions.
Advocate Lindiwe Sephomolo, a Labour and Industrial Relations Specialist from the Project Management Unit (PMU) under the LHDA, highlighted the forum’s role in this context:
“The forum serves as a structured platform for contractors and employees to engage in collective bargaining regarding employment terms and conditions.”
She further noted that its early establishment during the major contracts’ construction phase is intended to enhance relationships, communication, and collaboration between contractors and trade unions.
“It was structured early in the construction of major contracts to enhance relationships, communication, and collaboration between contractors and trade unions.” Advocate Sephomolo added.
A pioneering feat
Tšeliso Mokhosi, the Minister of Labour and Employment who officiated the forum launch, underscored the trail-blazing nature of the initiative.
“This is the first bargaining forum established since Parliament passed the Labour Act, 2024,” he said at the launch.
The minister further emphasised that the Labour Act aims to foster collective bargaining, providing a structured framework for employers and trade unions to negotiate employment conditions.
The Polihali Dam project, a critical component of the LHWP, has faced numerous labour-related challenges over the years where workers have frequently raised concerns about disparities in wages, inadequate working conditions, and other grievances.
These issues have often escalated into strikes and work stoppages, adversely affecting the project’s timeline and overall progress. The introduction of the Polihali Bargaining Forum is a proactive measure by the LHDA to address these challenges head-on.
By providing a dedicated platform for dialogue, the forum seeks to preempt potential disputes and ensure that concerns are addressed promptly and effectively.
A collaborative approach
The success of the Polihali Bargaining Forum hinges on the active participation and collaboration of all stakeholders involved. This includes not only the LHDA and contractors but also the workers and their representative trade unions.
By fostering an environment of mutual respect and open communication, the forum aspires to cultivate a harmonious workplace conducive to productivity and employee satisfaction. This proactive approach aims to build trust and understanding among all parties, thereby reducing the likelihood of conflicts.
The launch of the forum marks a pivotal moment in the evolution of labour relations within Lesotho’s construction sector.
Development Journalist specialising in the reporting of social, economic, and environmental issues. He analyses the impact of policies and programs on communities, along with other factors that influence community well-being. In addition to his journalism endeavors, he is an accomplished photojournalist, capturing compelling images that complement his narratives. Masoabi is also an audio storytelling podcaster, having earned certification from the Knight Centre for Journalism, affiliated with the University of Texas, United States.
