PM applauds Basotho generosity, King’s humility
By Siphesihle Dlamini siphesihled@rubiconmedia.group
Prime Minister Russell Dlamini has returned to Eswatini with a deep sense of admiration for the Basotho people’s renowned hospitality and a profound respect for His Majesty King Mswati III’s humility and affable nature.
His recent official visit to the Kingdom of Lesotho was marked by significant diplomatic engagements, notably representing His Majesty King Mswati III and the Eswatini nation at a landmark national celebration honouring King Letsie III’s receipt of the prestigious Presidential Global Water-maker Award.
The Prime Minister’s arrival in Maseru was dignified by the courtesy of Lesotho’s Prime Minister, H.E. Sam Matekane, who provided a private jet for the journey, underscoring the warm bilateral relations between the two nations.
This gesture symbolised the spirit of cooperation and mutual respect that defines Eswatini and Lesotho’s diplomatic ties.
At the heart of Prime Minister Dlamini’s visit was the celebration of King Letsie III’s recognition at the African Union-AIP Africa Water Investment Summit held in August.
The award acknowledges King Letsie III’s visionary leadership and the pivotal role of the Lesotho Highlands Water Project (LHWP) in addressing water scarcity challenges across Sub-Saharan Africa.
The LHWP is widely regarded as a transformative regional initiative that has significantly enhanced water resource management and distribution, benefiting millions across the continent.
During the national celebration in Maseru, Prime Minister Dlamini delivered a compelling address that highlighted the critical importance of the LHWP.
He described the project as a beacon of excellence in regional cooperation, emphasising how it exemplifies effective cross-border collaboration for equitable and sustainable water management.
The Prime Minister underscored that the award not only honours King Letsie III’s leadership but also symbolises a broader commitment to water security and sustainable development in Africa.
Water scarcity remains one of the most pressing challenges facing the continent. Prime Minister Dlamini drew attention to the stark reality that over half of the population in Sub-Saharan Africa still lacks access to safe drinking water.
Within the Southern African Development Community (SADC), only 63 per cent of people have access to potable water, highlighting the urgent need for innovative solutions and cooperative efforts. In this context, the LHWP stands out as a model for how regional partnerships can overcome resource limitations and deliver vital services to communities.
