The Katse Tunnel Boring Machine (TBM) broke ground on Phase II of the Lesotho Highlands Water Project (LHWP) on 15 January 2025 during a ceremony at Ha Bereng, Leribe. The event was officiated by the Minister of Home Affairs, Honourable Lebona Lephema, on behalf of the Prime Minister of Lesotho. This marks the first TBM-driven tunnelling in Lesotho’s highlands in over 20 years since Phase I of the project.
Dignitaries at the ceremony included representatives from the governments of Lesotho and South Africa, the Chinese Ambassador to Lesotho, members of the Lesotho Highlands Water Commission, the LHDA Board, project contractors, and representatives of communities impacted by the project.
The Katse TBM, named Khoiti ea ‘Ngoaha Kholo2 (The Rat Mole of 200 Years), is one of two double-shielded machines designed for the 38km Polihali Transfer Tunnel. The name was chosen following a nationwide naming competition.
Speaking at the event, Prime Minister Matekane highlighted the importance of the milestone, stating: “This milestone reflects the dedication and commitment of the government of Lesotho, the LHWC, the LHDA, and all consultants and contractors involved. I am confident that with the continued partnership and support of the government of the Republic of South Africa, we will achieve great things for both our nations.”
The Khoiti ea ‘Ngoaha Kholo2 TBM will tunnel approximately 20 metres per day, installing concrete lining segments as it progresses. A second TBM for the Polihali side is expected on-site by mid-2025. The TBMs were custom-built by CCCC Tianhe of China and designed by Robbins.
The Polihali Transfer Tunnel includes associated infrastructure such as intake works at the Polihali reservoir, outlet works at the Katse reservoir, and underwater connections to the Katse lake. In 2024, key milestones were achieved, including the breakthrough of the upper and lower intake tunnels in August and the commencement of the Polihali gate shaft excavation.
The tunnel is central to Phase II of the LHWP, facilitating the transfer of 1270m3 of water to South Africa’s Gauteng province to meet growing water demands. The project employs both tunnel boring and drill-and-blast methods.
The construction of the tunnel is overseen by MSKC JV, with the M9 billion contract awarded to Kopano Ke Matla Joint Venture. The project has so far created over 11,000 jobs and injected M366 million into contracts with Basotho businesses.
According to LHDA Chief Executive Tente Tente, the project demonstrates the commitment to economic growth and environmental sustainability, with initiatives supporting skills development, livelihoods, and environmental rehabilitation.
