The aim of this research project is to explore the socio-economic and environmental effects experienced by the relocated population at Lesotho Highlands Water Project (LHWP). Large dams are constructed for irrigation, generation of hydroelectricity, consumption and so forth. In the case of Lesotho, the LHWP was constructed with the purpose of selling water to South Africa to earn royalties and generate hydroelectricity. Despite the fact that a number of factors are advanced to justify the construction of large dams, phenomenal experience has shown that the consequences emanating from their construction are sometimes irreversible and painful, for instance resettlement. This research study therefore sought to investigate the socio-economic and environmental impacts experienced by the affected community emanating from LHWP resettlement programme at Ha Thetsane and Ha Makhalanyane; whether the standard of living of resettlees as measured in terms of access to services has improved or not; the extent of their participation in the resettlement programme; their perception on their standard of living; the extent to which the people have adapted to their forced removal from their homelands; investigate the compensation process; and make tailored recommendations concerning the environmental impacts of involuntary resettlement on the lives of the Basotho people. Qualitative approach was used to collect both primary and secondary data. Literature review was undertaken to provide background information to the problem statement, the methodology design, the theories and other factors used to justify the construction of large dams. The existing literature led to a deeper understanding of the impacts of larger dams, reaction towards construction of large dams and Lesotho’s experience regarding the construction of large dams. Interviews were also conducted. The data collected were written into descriptive analysis form. The resettlement programme at Ha Thetsane and Ha Makhalanyane has resulted in both positive and negative impacts. The study has concluded that there is a need to engage all the stakeholders affected by involuntary resettlement through a transparent public participation process; consider more sustainable means of livelihoods; furnish resettlees with information on the options to enable them to make informed decisions; fulfil promises in order to build trust with the resettlees. / Thesis (M.Soc.Sc.)-University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, 2011.

In the Kingdom of Lesotho, large dams are currently being constructed with the sole purpose of selling water to the Republic of South Africa, in order to earn royalties and to generate electricity for Lesotho. The focus of this study was to investigate the perception of the community on the socio-environmental impacts of Metolong Dam and Reservoir in Lesotho. A qualitative research methodology was adopted and grounded theory was used in collecting data from the study area. Qualitative research techniques used were document analysis, field notes and semi-structured interviews. After conducting an audit which evaluated the accuracy of the initial Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) by comparing actual to predict impacts, it was found that the perceptions of the community on the socio-economic impacts of Metolong project were: the community had poor education due to expensive school fees and their level of education did not help with dynamics on climate for they are complex and not easily to be understood, alcoholism existed due to unemployement, cultural constraints existed dominated by the patriarchal structures on the land and decision making, compensation policy was not honoured by project developers, the project brought benefits and loss of life-support resources, people are unable to grow wheat, beans and peas for their fields are taken and the community experienced loss of building sand that is not addressed. Information obtained helped the study to close the gap which appears not to have been addressed by the Government of Lesotho Department of Water Affairs Lowlands Water Supply Unit, 2008. Results of the study revealed that local villagers in the study area were happy with the project benefits, but they were discontented with the project as they were not incoporated in the management and supervision of the project. Rather, the local villagers were engaged only as labourers. The study recommends that when large dams are constructed, local villages should not be given promises that are dressed with many enticing commitments. The reason is that, communities never asked for the project, but it is set forth authoritatively as obligatory upon them. Project authorities should increase their efforts to fulfil promises made. Not only that, they should have respect, compassion, care and dedication when dealing with affected people. It is in this regard that the Local Based Project Execution and Observation Model is proposed, which will incorporate local villagers in the management steps of all large dam developments within their communities, in order to contend with environmental impacts of large dams. / Environmental Sciences / Ph. D. (Environmental Management)