By Ntokozo Magongo
MBABANE – Minister of Natural Resources and Energy Eswatini Prince Lonkhokhela has cut the sod to mark the start of the E340 million (Euro 16.5 million) water project that will benefit both Eswatini and Mozambique.
The sod-cutting event took place yesterday (Thursday, June 6, 2024). The project that will be under construction for the next 18 months (completion anticipated late 2025) is trading as the Lomahasha – Namaacha Cross Border Water Supply Project and at his been made possible by German Government and KfW.
HRH Prince Lonkhokhela was accompanied by Alberto Fortes Mesquita, Minister responsible for water in Mozambique when cutting the sod to mark the start of construction of the ground breaking project.
According to information sourced from the Ministry, this initiative symbolizes the strong relationship between Eswatini and Mozambique, and will uplift the lives of citizens in both countries.
“The project marks a significant milestone in the efforts of Eswatini, Mozambique, and their regional partners to improve access to clean water and strengthen bilateral relations. The project has been made possible through the generous support of the German Government and KfW, is a testament to the power of international cooperation in addressing critical development needs,” reads a statement from the Ministry.
Minister Prince Lonkhokhela said the water project will benefit the areas in Lomahasha and Namaacha.
“The sod cutting ceremony we are witnessing today (Thursday), is for the potable water supply for two areas, Lomahasha in the Kingdom of Eswatini and Namaacha in the Republic of Mozambique. The raw water will beabstracted from the Mbuluzi River near the Simunye Sugar Mill and will be conveyed from the treatment plant operated by Eswatini Water Services Cooperation (EWSC),” he said.
