Water, Water, Everywhere
Theme: Environment
Grade: 7-9
Introduction
South Africa is generally a dry country and we often experience shortages of water. Our economy is driven by mining and agriculture, both of which require large amounts of water. One of our neighbours is the mountain kingdom of Lesotho - a country rich in water because of the snow that falls on the mountains. South Africa and Lesotho created the Lesotho Highlands Water Project (LHWP) in order for South Africa to gain more water and for Lesotho to gain much needed foreign currency.
Now there are claims that the project had a negative impact in the Lesotho environment and Sotho culture. There are rumours that some elements in Lesotho may file a damages claim with the International Court of Justice in the Hague.
Photo: Jon Sullivan, Geekphilosopher.com
Task
The South African Department of Foreign Affairs has commissioned you to do an impact study on the Lesotho Highlands Water Project and to conclude whether or not there is a case for a damages claim. Your decision should be backed up by evidence. You will work in a team and create a presentation that demonstrates your conclusions based on your research. You will complete the following tasks:
- Research brief background information about the culture and environment of north-western Lesotho.
- Research particular areas of the LHWP in order to learn more about the impact of the project on Lesotho.
- Create a presentation that presents your findings and offers your team's assessment of and final conclusion regarding the impact of the LHWP.
Process
For this assignment, you will work in teams of four and you will divide your task into roles as follows (click on each role for more information):
Conclusion
By completing this activity you and your team should have gained a good insight into the significance of one of the largest engineering projects this regions has seen. Does everyone benefit from such projects? Are the complaints justified? Has life improved or not?
