Lesotho rejoiced on Friday as the Ha Mpiti-Sehlabathebe Road, a key infrastructure project built with Chinese support, was officially handed over to the government. The new road is expected to significantly improve lives in the region.
Prime Minister Sam Matekane addressed the handover ceremony in Qacha’s Nek District, highlighting the project’s importance. “This vital project will bring positive changes in numerous ways,” he said. “The improved road will connect communities, ease travel for people and goods, and boost economic activity.” He further expressed gratitude for China’s “continued support for Lesotho’s development endeavors,” which he believes strengthens the friendship between the two nations.
Lesotho officials praised the high quality of the road and China’s role as a reliable partner. They acknowledged the challenges Lesotho faced in development and China’s commitment to assisting them.
Acting Chinese Ambassador Lyu Liangzhong explained that the project was funded through concessional loans provided by China under the Belt and Road Initiative. Over five years, a gravel road was transformed into a modern asphalt highway, creating roughly 1,500 jobs and training over 300 Basotho technicians.
The project manager emphasized the significant improvement the 91.48-kilometer road will bring. Travel time on the entire route is expected to be slashed from four hours to just 1.5 hours, offering a major boost to regional connectivity.
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