Lesotho Dam Project

Question 1

When did the South African government reach an agreement with Lesotho to provide water to Johannesburg?

Answer 1

They reached an agreement in 1986

Question 2

What is the Lesotho Highlands Water Project?

Answer 2

Massive project. 6 dams in Lesotho and 200km of tunnels to transfer water to Vaal river system in South Africa.

Question 3

3 Advantages of the project

Answer 3

1) 1000 more people a day are getting access to clean water in South Africa
2) Lesotho has excess water. Earns $35 million annually.
3) 7000 jobs created.

Question 4

3 Disadvantages of the project

Answer 4

1) Cost South Africa $1.6 billion
2) Farmers in Lesotho lost livelihoods with little compensation for flooded fields.
3) Water consumption is still increasing in South Africa.