Water

Water as one of the affected sectors

Water is one the most important natural resources of Lesotho and the water sector encompasses almost all aspects of life, the economy and the natural environment. The unique geographic location, high altitude and pristine natural quality of the mountain areas position Lesotho as the (‘water tower’) of southern Africa. The sustainability of water resources is threatened by the degradation of the catchment areas which is worsened by the climate change impacts. These challenges threatens the development of Phase II of the Lesotho Highlands Water Project (LHWP) and implementation of the Lesotho Lowlands Water Supply Scheme (LLWSS). 

A strong framework to guide the development and management of water resources in the face of increasing uncertainty is also central to long-term macroeconomic water security. These include implementation of Integrated catchment management ICM and Long-term Water and Sanitation Strategies. Learn more about the comprehensive ICM programme in Lesotho.

Effects

Impacts

Adaptation Measures

Erratic Rainfall Patterns

Climate change has led to more unpredictable and irregular rainfall, which can result in both droughts and floods, negatively affecting crop planting and yields.

  • Implement drought-tolerant crop varieties.
  • Use rainwater harvesting and small-scale irrigation to better manage water resources.

Droughts

Increasing frequency and severity of droughts result in water stress for crops, particularly during dry periods, leading to stunted growth and yield reduction.

Increasing frequency and severity of droughts can result in water stress for crops, stunting their growth and reducing yields.

Reduced crop yields can lead to economic hardship and loss of livelihoods, as many Basotho rely on crop production for income and sustenance.

Decreased crop production can lead to food shortages and increased food prices, contributing to food insecurity, malnutrition, and health problems, particularly among vulnerable populations.

  • Invest in small-scale irrigation, rainwater harvesting, and water-efficient techniques to ensure consistent water availability for crops.
  • Promote soil moisture conservation methods like mulching.
  • Promote drought-resistant crop varieties.
  • Enhance crop diversification to reduce risk
  • Develop early warning systems to prepare for food shortages.
  • Promote community-based food security initiatives.

Unpredictable Frost and Temperature Extremes

Fluctuations in temperature, including unseasonal frosts, can harm crops and reduce the length of growing seasons.

Warmer temperatures can facilitate the proliferation of pests and diseases, posing a threat to crop health. This often necessitates increased pesticide use.

  • Plant crops that are more resilient to temperature extremes.
  • Use protective measures such as crop covers or tunnels during frost-prone periods.
  • Implement integrated pest management (IPM) practices.
  • Promote crop rotation to reduce pest and disease pressure.

Intense rainfall events

Intense rainfall events can lead to soil erosion and degradation, negatively impacting crop quality and yields.

  • Use soil conservation practices like terracing and cover cropping.
  • Implement agroforestry to enhance soil health and stability.