13/06/2026
From Shared Learning to Lasting Impact
Yesterday marked the conclusion of a fruitful exchange visit between the Ministry of Natural Resources Lesotho, World Vision Lesotho, the Ministry of Natural Resources and Energy Eswatini, and World Vision Eswatini.
As part of the visit, the delegation toured two community water systems in Gege and Bulekeni, which were established through a partnership between the Government of Eswatini and World Vision Eswatini. The visit culminated in the official launch of the Bulekeni Water Supply Scheme by the Minister of Natural Resources and Energy Eswatini.
The impact of these water systems was best captured by one community member who shared:
"My child now has time and safety to access water within two minutes at a safe place and never misses or is late to school anymore."
This simple testimony reflects the transformative power of access to clean water for children and their families.
During the launch, the Kingdom of Eswatini expressed appreciation to the Lesotho delegation for the visit and acknowledged the significant water infrastructure projects being implemented in Lesotho.
In his remarks, Honourable Minister Moleko , Minister of Natural Resources Lesotho, expressed gratitude for the opportunity to learn from the strong partnership between the Government of Eswatini and World Vision Eswatini.
He noted that leaders from several ministries, including Health, Finance, Housing, Commerce, and Natural Resources, consistently emphasized that the remarkable progress made in WASH within a short period would not have been possible without their partnership with World Vision Eswatini.
One of the key lessons from the visit was the innovative 50:50 partnership model, where both government and World Vision contribute resources and jointly oversee implementation.
Equally inspiring was the sustainability of the water schemes, with communities managing and maintaining the systems long after project completion.
On the first day on the visit in Eswatini, the delegation visited a water system that has continued to operate successfully for eight years after World Vision's exit, demonstrating the power of community ownership.
As the delegation returns home, the lessons learned will help inform efforts to strengthen collaboration, accelerate progress towards SDG 6, and improve access to safe water for Basotho communities.
The exchange visit may have ended, but the journey towards achieving safe water for all Basotho continues.
World Vision Southern Africa World Vision International World Vision U.S. Programs Lesotho Government World Vision Eswatini
