Lesotho and South Africa to launch one-of-a-kind Senqu Bridge

The governments of South Africa and Lesotho are, on Wednesday, April 22, 2026, expected to officially launch a vital bridge towering over a deep valley and connecting two key regions within Lesotho.

The South African Government News Agency reports that the launch of Senqu Bridge will take place in Lesotho's northeastern district of Mokhotlong, which borders South Africa.

The bridge hangs over Polihali reservoir, a massive water storage facility, whose construction began in 2023.

The dam draws its water from the Senqu River, which is Lesotho's largest and longest river.

Electricity generation and water supply

The Polihali reservoir, upon its scheduled completion in 2028, will store slightly more than 2.3 million cubic metres of water.

The reservoir — which measures 165 metres high and is currently 50% complete — is aimed at generating electricity for Lesotho and improving water supply to South Africa through a 38-kilometre transfer tunnel.

The Senqu Bridge was, therefore, constructed to ensure free movement of goods and people even when the dam is filled to capacity.

Previously, a major road, A1, and a makeshift crossing facilitated movement, but sections of that road will now be submerged by the Polihali reservoir.

South Africa is project's chief financier

The Senqu Bridge will enable movement between Mokhotlong district and Lesotho's capital, Maseru.

The bridge has been constructed at a cost of 2.4 billion South African rand, an equivalent of nearly $147 million.

The South African government contributed more than 86% of funds for the construction of the bridge, as well as the Polihali reservoir and other similar infrastructure under what is called Phase II of the South Africa-Lesotho Highlands Water Project.

South Africa is the chief financier because it is the main beneficiary of the water transferred from Lesotho.

Major engineering accomplishment

The African Development Bank (AfDB) offered the remaining funds as a loan programme.

The Senqu Bridge, which was constructed by approximately 1,200 people, measures 825 metres in length and stands approximately 90 metres above the Polihali reservoir.

Beyond its strategic importance, the completion of Senqu Bridge marks a major engineering accomplishment, given that it was built in one of Southern Africa's most challenging terrains.

Mokhotlong is a high-altitude mountainous region, often referred to as the "Roof of Africa."

One of a kind

Senqu is Lesotho's first extradosed bridge, meaning it is the only one in the country that has strong and stiff beams, which are supported by cables.

South Africa receives a significant amount of its water supply from Lesotho, with Lesotho getting around $200 million yearly from Pretoria for the crucial resource.

The neighbours signed a treaty in October 1986 for Lesotho to routinely supply South Africa with water.