The Water Tower of Southern Africa: Protect It, Preserve It, Pass It On: Transboundary Source-to-Mouth campaign

The Water Tower of Southern Africa: Protect It, Preserve It, Pass It On: Transboundary Source-to-Mouth campaign

Remarks by the EU Ambassador at the H.E Mette SUNNERGREN - Mokhotlong, 23 March 2026

Khotsong bo-'Mé le Bo-Ntate, esteemed guests,

It is with profound gratitude that I address you today during the conclusion of the source to mouth campaign done as part of the ReNoka programme which we are proud of. Today we further reflect on our combined efforts that have resulted in reclaiming our land and water resources which is the very lifeline of the sustenance of the Orange Senqu River basin.

The Orange Senqu River basin benefits up to 19 million people across the four riparian states of Lesotho, South Africa, Botswana and Namibia. The same water which has its source in the highlands of Lesotho powers industry, irrigates farms, sustains tourism and is used in various ways within households downstream. Water, however, is not a finite resource but requires our joint efforts to protect it, preserve it, and pass it on.

The Source to Mouth Campaign is a reminder for us that no matter where we are in the basin we have a responsibility of care. On this day we gather in the Khubelu Priority Sub Catchment, where our combined efforts have resulted in the reclamation of over 250 hectares of watersheds. The fruits of this work are visible: wetlands are replenishing, grasslands are regenerating, and native flora and fauna, such as birds, are making a comeback.

We appreciate the unwavering support for the ReNoka initiative by the Embassy of the Federal Republic of Germany, our partnership embodies the spirit of team Europe. And we also appreciate the government of Lesotho, with whom our partnership of almost 50 years has had considerable impact in the lives of Basotho through building infrastructure, institutions and supporting the country during times of disaster.

While we reflect, let us note that the battle against soil erosion persists. ReNoka remains steadfast in its commitment to combat erosion through a holistic approach including improved rangeland management, storm water diversion, terrace rehabilitation, and community engagement.

There is no doubt that ReNOKA is a framework around which we can help enshrine government action and development partners' support, reducing the duplication of mandates, and paving the way for common mechanisms, such as pooled funds.

This approach is at the heart of Global Gateway, the European strategy to boost smart, clean and secure links in digital, climate, energy and transport sectors and to strengthen health, education and research systems across the world. Inspired by this strategy, we are collaborating through key initiatives such Renewable Lesotho, a programme to maximise Lesotho's solar, hydro, and wind energy potential for energy security and initiative called Metsi a Lesotho. Metsi a Lesotho will contribute to Sustainable Development Goal 6 on safe water, sanitation and hygiene to all, through supporting access to safe water in 250 rural communities across the country, many of which currently use unimproved services, and sustainable land and water resource management.

As we conclude the campaign and phase I of the ICM support, we are aware that more action is still required, we are also happy to announce that we will soon be launching the second phase of the ICM support aimed to strengthen sustainability efforts through re-fencing financial architecture of ICM, strengthening coordination and data exchange among partners.

In closing, I extend my heartfelt thanks to all those who contribute to the success of ReNoka, for your unwavering support and guidance. May our collective efforts continue to bear fruit as we strive towards a more sustainable and prosperous future.

Thank you.

Khotso! Pula! Nala!