. . . it has become a curse to us
Mathatisi Sebusi
WHILE development projects are intended to improve lives, it is a paradox that the road construction in Tsoapo le Bolila, Qoaling, has disrupted 20 households and left them struggling with its consequences.
One such affected resident is 74-year-old Maneo Ntšike, who lost her once-sturdy home and now lives precariously in a rickety structure that could collapse at any moment in the aftermath of road works.
On rainy days, she resorts to sharing a single room with her 16-year-old grandson, the only safe space, because the rest of the house leaks badly. Buckets are scattered across the floor to catch rainwater and protect what remains of her possessions.
On windy nights, she stays awake, fearful the roof could be blown away.
Ms Ntšike explained that her problems began in 2016 when Maseru City Council (MCC) started constructing the now tarred road behind her home. Before construction, she had planted large pine trees near her house which she claims the contractor uprooted, thereby weakening her home’s foundation.
The impact of vibrating heavy machinery used during construction further worsened the damage.
“This was in 2016, and we were promised compensation once the project was completed. Some people were relocated, but those of us whose property was damaged have been fighting for compensation to no avail,” Ms Ntšike said.
According to her, a new issue soon arose, that of leaking pipes believed to have been installed beneath the road by the Water and Sewerage Company (WASCO).
These leaks had left homes constantly soaked, causing furniture to rot and mould to spread throughout the houses.
“In trying to get help, we have been given the runarounds by MCC, the contractor, and WASCO, who shift blame as all of them refuse to take responsibility,” she said.
Ms Ntšike’s home is now surrounded by mould while sunlight pierces through holes in the deteriorating roof, and her toilet area is ever flooded, threatening the structure’s stability.
Despite reporting the ordeal to MCC and WASCO, she has not received any assistance.
Instead, WASCO billed her M10,000 for water usage, this being water she insists leaked from the burst pipes she reported.
“WASCO did not fix the leak. They just cut off my water supply and accused me of using the water. I was devastated,” she said tearfully.
She also approached the contractor, who sent people to paint her house but in no time the paint is already peeling off and no structural repairs were made.
“I have come to terms with the loss of my furniture, but what worries me most is having to share a room with my grandson because the rest of the house is uninhabitable. I am always worried that the house could collapse, especially with the windy season approaching. “Developments are meant to uplift us, but this one feels like a curse,” she lamented.
Matšepang Kolobe, another affected resident, used to earn a living by renting out rooms but since the road was built, her rental units have developed severe cracks, leaks, and mould, making them undesirable for tenants.
“I have tried patching up the walls and dealing with the water, but the leaks just keep coming. It has affected my business badly. While others charge M750 to M800 for two-roomed units, I still charge M600 just to get tenants. Before the road construction, we never had these issues,” Ms Kolobe said.
She said she was part of a community committee advocating for compensation. Despite reporting the matter to MCC, WASCO, the Ombudsman’s office, and even taking the issue to court, they have seen no resolution. They have also reached out to the Senate and written to the Public Accounts Committee as a last resort.
“We have been knocking on different doors since 2020. No one seems interested in solving this problem. We are open to relocation if necessary because we are just tired of living like this,” she said.
These concerns were echoed by area chief, Makoae Tšiame, who confirmed that about 20 community members have been affected. Many homes near the road developed cracks and leaks due to heavy machinery used during construction.
“We have tried everything in our power to get assistance, but nothing has been done. We have been told the contractor is responsible for compensation, but no one knows where he is,” Chief Tšiame said.
When contacted for comment, Maseru City Council spokesperson, ‘Makatleho Mosala, said the cases are being handled individually, not collectively.
She explained that MCC documents properties with photographs before projects begin to assess damages afterward.
However, she was on a field visit therefore she could not provide specific information until her return.
In a separate interview, WASCO spokesperson, Rethabile Lefantsatsa, said this was the first time they had heard of the crisis, and he promised to visit the affected community to gather information.
“We were not aware of this case. However, WASCO has insurance to compensate those whose property has been damaged due to our operations. If the claims are valid, the residents are eligible for compensation,” Mr Lefantsatsa said.
