…as Liqalaneng finally celebrates clean water
Makananelo Manamolela
FOR more than two decades, the people of Liqalaneng in Qalo constituency, Botha-Bothe, lived a life defined by thirst.
Each day was a struggle. Women and children trekked long distances to fetch water from wells, often under unsafe conditions. Nights were no different—villagers braved darkness and cold, queuing at unreliable sources just to secure a bucket of water for their families.
That struggle has now come to an end.
In a moment filled with relief and gratitude, the community gathered on Friday as their legislator, Dada Jooma, officially handed over a water project worth M90 000 funded from his own pocket.
The project marks a turning point for Liqalaneng, transforming daily life in a way many residents once thought impossible.
The sound of running water is more than convenience—it is dignity restored, hope renewed, and the end of a 20-year wait.
Speaking at the handover ceremony, Mr Jooma reflected on his journey into politics and the responsibility that comes with leadership.
“I had never been in politics before, but you trusted me by electing me in 2022; therefore I made a commitment that I will work hard to ensure that every challenge (facing you) is resolved,” Mr Jooma said.
He emphasised that serving the people requires sacrifice and selflessness.
“The challenges facing this constituency are mine, because I chose this path. The first thing to leave when one decides to serve the people is oneself.”
Jooma commended the community for their patience and faith in his leadership, noting that the project came sooner than many expected.
“It is not even a long time since we discussed this issue, but here we are today celebrating the goodness of our God. I know some of you even wanted to meet me halfway by contributing, but this is what I had pledged to do,” he said.
The newly installed system uses electricity to pump water, prompting Mr Jooma to also purchase electricity worth M1000 to support the water committee as they establish a sustainable contribution plan.
While celebrating the milestone, he revealed that a larger government-funded water project is on the horizon—one that aims to bring water directly into households.
“My main purpose for doing this now is because of how long you have already waited. Let us watch the bigger project, and if it does not go as expected, I am still with you—we will find a way,” he assured residents.
He also hinted at future developments, including plans for a football field, stressing his preference for action over empty promises.
“I am a man of action, not talking, because talking too much can lead to telling lies,” he said.
Local leadership echoed the significance of the development. Councillor for Pholo Namane, Jone Dlamini, described the project as historic.
“It has been over twenty years with dry taps in this area, despite many efforts to restore water,” Mr Dlamini said.
He praised Mr Jooma for his dedication and willingness to act beyond political divides.
“Honourable Jooma has shown real leadership. He kept me informed at every stage. I believe he approached government, but when he realised it might take too long, he used his own finances,” Mr Dlamini said.
For residents, the impact is immediate and life-changing.
“The struggle of fetching water from wells at night is now over,” Mr Dlamini added, confirming that the water had been tested and declared safe for consumption.
He urged the community to safeguard the infrastructure, noting that water, roads and electricity remain the pillars of development.
One of the beneficiaries, ‘Mamahaba Moketetsa, could hardly contain her joy, while also calling for inclusivity.
“I am happy for this development,” Ms Moketetsa said.
However, she appealed for the extension of the project to underserved parts of the area.
“We were tired of relying on water from wells in the lower areas. We also needed clean water.”
Beyond addressing a basic need, the project has also brought economic benefits. According to constituency secretary, ‘Makeresemese Mphafolane, it created employment for dozens of locals.
“Seventy people got part-time jobs through this initiative and were paid. This project has not only brought water but also opportunities,” Ms Mphafolane said.
She described the development as a restoration of hope for a community that had long felt forgotten.
“We had lost hope that our area would ever be developed, but today we see that there are people who truly care for Basotho,” she said.