Background
The Lesotho Highlands Water Project (LHWP) is implemented pursuant to the Treaty between the Government of Lesotho and the Republic of South Africa.
The Lesotho Highlands Development Authority (LHDA), a statutory body established under LHDA Order No. 23 of 1986, is responsible for the implementation, operation, and maintenance of the LHWP in Lesotho. The project includes hydropower generation for Lesotho and the transfer of water to South Africa while ensuring the protection of the socio-economic and biophysical environment.
LHDA intends to procure the services of a Local Socio-Economic and Resettlement Expert to serve as a member of the five-member Environmental Panel of Experts (EPOEs) for a period of three (3) years.
Position
Socio-Economic and Resettlement Expert (Local)
Job Purpose
The Environmental Panel of Experts (EPOEs) advises and supports LHDA in fulfilling its environmental and social commitments.
The Panel is responsible for conducting comprehensive and independent reviews of the adequacy, technical quality, suitability, and rigor of technical designs, monitoring methods, and reports.
As a member of the EPOEs, the Socio-Economic and Resettlement Expert will:
- Provide expert oversight and support in the planning and implementation of LHDA’s social and resettlement programmes.
- Assist in achieving the Treaty obligation of maintaining the living standards of communities and individuals affected by the Project.
- Provide valuable local insight through a deep understanding of the socio-economic context, cultural dynamics, and community expectations within Lesotho.
Required Qualifications and Experience
Applicants must:
- Possess at least a Master’s Degree in Social Sciences or Natural Sciences. A PhD or Doctorate Degree in a relevant field will be an added advantage.
- Be an expert in one or more of the following disciplines:
- Resettlement
- Livelihoods
- Socio-economic surveys
- Have a minimum of fifteen (15) years’ experience in:
- Planning, scheduling, and designing socio-economic and resettlement programmes/projects.
- Implementing socio-economic and resettlement programmes/projects.
- Establishing monitoring and evaluation systems for large engineering projects in the water sector.
- Demonstrate experience gained internationally and within the SADC region.
- Have at least sub-regional experience as an Independent Advisor. Regional and international experience will be an added advantage.
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted either by hand delivery or electronically in sealed envelopes or electronic folders clearly marked:
“The Environmental Panel of Expert (EPOE) for the LHWP”
Submission Address
Lesotho Highlands Development Authority (LHDA)
7th Floor, LHDA Tower Building
Electronic Submission
Email: [email protected]
A register of submissions will be maintained to confirm compliance with the submission deadline.
Enquiries
All enquiries should be directed to the LHDA Procurement Section:
Email: [email protected]
Additional Information
For more information, eligible candidates may visit:
http://www.lhda.org.ls/lhdaweb/Uploads/documents/Tenders/RequestforEOIPOE
Closing Date
24 July 2026 at 12:00 noon
Important Notes
- Only applications received before the closing date and time will be considered.
- Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
- Interviews for shortlisted candidates will be conducted at a date, time, and venue determined by LHDA.
- Shortlisted candidates will be required to authenticate information provided in their CVs.
- LHDA reserves the right not to fill the position if no suitable candidate is identified.
- Appointment of the successful candidate is subject to positive security clearance and any other requirements stipulated by LHDA.