New cross-border bridge set to transform travel between SA and Lesotho
South Africa and Lesotho are unveiling a key new link this April, and its about to change travel between the two countries.
A major new bridge linking South Africa and Lesotho is set to open, marking a significant step forward in one of the region’s biggest infrastructure projects.
The Senqu Bridge, located in Lesotho’s Mokhotlong District, will officially be unveiled on 22 April 2026, providing a crucial new route between communities and strengthening cross-border connectivity.
A vital new link between South Africa and Lesotho
Stretching roughly 825 metres and standing about 90 metres high, the Senqu Bridge will serve as a key transport connection once the nearby Polihali Dam is completed.
As water levels rise, existing routes in the area will be submerged, making the bridge essential to maintaining access between towns and the wider road network.
It will also link directly to the A1 route, a major road connecting Mokhotlong to Maseru, Lesotho’s capital.
The bridge forms part of Phase II of the Lesotho Highlands Water Project, a long-running partnership between South Africa and Lesotho.
This project is designed to secure water supply for South Africa while supporting development and energy generation in Lesotho.
Once completed, Phase II will significantly increase the amount of water transferred to South Africa’s economic hub, Gauteng.
More water to meet demand
The project taps into the Orange–Senqu river system, supplying water to the Integrated Vaal River System, a critical source for industries and households in South Africa.
By expanding capacity, the project aims to boost long-term water security, especially as demand continues to grow.
Beyond its strategic importance, the Senqu Bridge is also a major engineering achievement.
It is the first bridge of its kind in Lesotho, using a hybrid design that combines cable-stayed and girder construction methods.
The Senqu Bridge is one of three major bridges being built as part of this phase, alongside the Mabunyane and Khubelu bridges.
At the same time, construction continues on the Polihali Dam and a 38-kilometre transfer tunnel, both key components of the broader project.
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