18 Jun 2026

President Advocate Duma Boko has announced plans to expand a proposed Botswana-Lesotho water transfer scheme into a trilateral project with South Africa, calling it a potential game-changer for regional water security and industrialisation. 

Speaking at a State Banquet in Gaborone on June 17 for Lesotho Prime Minister Samuel Matekane, President Boko said discussions were underway to formally include South Africa in the Lesotho-South Africa-Botswana Water Transfer Project. 

The announcement came during the inaugural session of the Botswana-Lesotho Bi-National Commission, launched after Boko’s official visit to Lesotho last year. 

The project would channel water from Lesotho through South Africa into southern Botswana, covering about 700 kilometres. President Boko said the proposal gained traction after  South Africa President Cyril Ramaphosa suggested a three-country approach during his recent state visit to Botswana. 

“We will have the opportunity during our discussions to endorse and fully bring South Africa on board,” President Boko said. 
Implemented under the Orange-Senqu River Commission (ORASECOM) framework, the scheme aims to bolster water security in southern Botswana and support agriculture, industrial growth, climate resilience, and regional integration. 

President Boko praised the speed at which both countries moved from signing the agreement to convening the commission. He also called for faster joint action in trade, investment, agriculture, tourism, education, health, youth development, culture, defence and security. 

“Governments should create an enabling environment for the private sector to drive investment, innovation and job creation,” he said, noting that trade between Botswana and Lesotho remains below its potential.  He welcomed the Botswana-Lesotho Business Forum held alongside the commission, saying stronger business partnerships would deepen economic integration and expand opportunities for citizens of both countries.

Prime Minister Matekane called for a new chapter of economic integration and technological collaboration. He described the BNC launch as a historic milestone to strengthen ties in trade, investment, infrastructure, education, tourism, and other sectors. 

“Today, as we embark on a historic milestone through the formal convening of the first session and official launch of our BNC, we do so with a desire to further deepen the already existing diplomatic and economic relations,” Matekane said. 

He urged renewed cooperation within the Botswana, Lesotho, and eSwatini grouping, emphasizing technology, AI, innovation, creative industries, and sport to create youth opportunities. 

Mr Matekane also paid tribute to the late former President Festus Mogae, calling him a visionary statesman whose leadership advanced regional cooperation and democratic governance. 

He also congratulated Botswana on hosting the recent World Athletics Relays and praised Team Botswana’s performance. ENDS