South African President Cyril Ramaphosa is leading a ministerial delegation to Lesotho on Wednesday, in a move aimed at deepening bilateral cooperation and addressing shared regional priorities. The visit, which includes 15 ministers, marks a significant diplomatic engagement between the two neighbouring states.
Ramaphosa is set to co-chair the second session of the South Africa–Lesotho Bi-National Commission (BNC) with Prime Minister Sam Matekane in Maseru. The commission, established to formalize strategic dialogue, last met in September 2023.
A key focus of the talks will be the Lesotho Highlands Water Project, a flagship infrastructure initiative of continental importance. South Africa is expected to call for the expedited rollout of Phase II, with emphasis on adhering to set deadlines and financial commitments. The project remains vital not only for water security in South Africa but also for Lesotho’s energy generation and economic development.
This week’s session also comes at a time of evolving global power dynamics. According to officials, Pretoria will advocate for closer cooperation within the Southern African region and among countries of the Global South, aiming to strengthen collective resilience amid geopolitical uncertainty.
South Africa will additionally highlight its private sector footprint in Lesotho, where investments have generated thousands of jobs and contributed to economic activity. The BNC is expected to review the impact of these investments and explore ways to boost intra-regional trade and business partnerships.
Migration and border issues are also on the agenda. With thousands of Basotho living and working in South Africa, both governments are seeking more efficient frameworks for labor mobility and cross-border governance.
As the two nations revisit the commitments made during the first BNC, Wednesday’s session is anticipated to deliver renewed momentum on joint development initiatives and institutional cooperation.