List of rivers of Lesotho facts for kids

Rivers of Lesotho

Lesotho is a small country in Southern Africa, often called the "Water Tower of Southern Africa." This is because many important rivers begin high up in its mountains. These rivers provide water for Lesotho and its neighboring countries. The most famous river starting here is the Orange River, known as the Senqu River in Lesotho. This article will help you discover the main rivers that flow through this beautiful mountain kingdom.

Lesotho's Amazing Rivers

Lesotho's landscape is very mountainous, which means it has many rivers and streams. These rivers are super important for the country. They provide drinking water, help with farming, and are even used to create electricity through dams. The rivers also form natural borders with neighboring countries like South Africa. Understanding these rivers helps us see how water connects different places and supports life.

The Mighty Orange River (Senqu)

Sunset over the Orange River near Upington in the Northern Cape

The Orange River is one of the longest rivers in Southern Africa. It starts high in the Drakensberg Mountains of Lesotho, where it is known as the Senqu River. From Lesotho, it flows all the way to the Atlantic Ocean. It's a vital source of water for millions of people. Many other rivers in Lesotho are actually branches, or tributaries, of the Orange River.

Here are some of the main rivers that join the Orange River in Lesotho:

• Caledon River (Mohokare River): This river forms a big part of the border between Lesotho and South Africa. It's very important for both countries.
  • Little Caledon River: A smaller river that flows into the Caledon.
  • Ngoe River: Another stream that joins the Caledon.
• Tele River: This river is also part of the border between Lesotho and South Africa.
• Makhaleng River: An important tributary that flows through the western part of Lesotho.
• Senqunyane River: This river is known for the Katse Dam, one of the largest dams in Africa, which helps provide water and electricity.
  • Mantsonyane River: A river that flows into the Senqunyane.
• Tsedike River: Another smaller river contributing to the Orange River system.
• Malibamat'so River: This river is also home to a major dam, the Mohale Dam, which is part of the Lesotho Highlands Water Project.
  • Pelaneng River: A tributary of the Malibamat'so.
• Dinakeng River: A river that adds to the flow of the Orange.
• Khubelu River: Another river in the Orange River basin.
• Mokhotlong River: This river flows near the town of Mokhotlong in the eastern highlands.

These rivers are like the veins of Lesotho, carrying water and life throughout the country. They are a precious natural resource that needs to be protected for future generations.