Prime Minister Pakalitha Mosisili in Libya

The Orange/Senqu River Commission Agreement between Lesotho, Botswana, South Africa and Namibia is an indication of the cooperation on water resources between African states that Libyan President Muammar Gaddafi has advocated. 

The Minister of Natural Resources, Mr. Monyane Moleleki announced this in a press briefing at the Moshoeshoe I International Airport on February 24 on the departure  of the Prime Minister, Mr. Pakalitha Mosisili to the Extraordinary Summit of  the African Union, being held in Sirte, Libya, from February 23 to March 1.

The African Heads of Government and States summit will discuss issues relating to the use of water for agricultural purposes including irrigation in African countries, Mr. Moleleki said, announcing that President  Gaddafi, who initiated this meeting, has suggests that the continent's water be used for irrigation and regions should grow plants suitable for both weather conditions and type of soil in such regions.

For the southern Africa region maize has been recommended with rice suggested for the western region. Countries such as Sudan, Egypt and Uganda could grow sugar and tea. It was in this regard that Colonel Gaddafi had suggested  that African countries with an abundance of water should build canals to supply
those without and like wise those with plenty of oil and other products so that eventually Africa becomes competitive in world markets.

Mr. Moleleki said the summit follows the African Ministers of Water and Energy and of Agriculture meeting held in Sirte, Libya two weeks ago where preparations for the summit were made.

The Prime Minister's delegation includes the Minister of Foreign Affairs Mr. Mohlabi Tsekoa and his Principal Secretary Mr. Motlatsi Ramafole, the Prime Minister's Senior Personal Secretary Mrs. 'Mamohlomi Seithleko. They will be joined by the Ambassador of Lesotho in Ethiopia Mr. Mosuhla Leteka.

25 February 2004