Phase II of the LHWP comprises the Polihali Water Transfer Scheme, including the construction of a Concrete-Faced Rockfill Dam downstream of the confluence of the Khubelu and Senqu Rivers, together with a gravity tunnel connecting the Polihali Reservoir to the Katse Reservoir.
The phase also includes advance infrastructure works, such as roads, construction camps, power lines, and telecommunications systems. In addition, the project encompasses the design and construction of feeder roads and bridges under Lesotho Highlands Development Authority (LHDA) Contract No. 3005.
The LHDA, mandated to develop, operate, and maintain this infrastructure, appointed Khubelu Joint Venture (“the Consultant”) for the Design and Construction Supervision of the Feeder Roads and Bridges.
Khubelu Joint Venture now wishes to engage the Project’s Community Liaison Officers (CLOs) to support the Construction and Supervision of Feeder Roads and Bridges Contract.
Job Summary
- Employer: Khubelu Joint Venture
- Job Type: Contract
- Location: Mokhotlong, Lesotho
- Category: Community Development
- Closing Date: 2026-10-15
Key Responsibilities
- Promoting constructive and respectful relationships between the Project and landowners, herders, vulnerable groups, local institutions, and other stakeholders by fostering cooperation, addressing concerns proactively, and reducing the potential for conflict, misunderstanding, or disruption during Project implementation.
- Facilitating effective and continuous communication between the Project and Interested and Affected Parties (I&APs), including Project Affected Communities (PACs), Project Affected Persons (PAPs), local authorities, Civil Society Organizations (CSOs), and other relevant stakeholders, ensuring that information is accurate, accessible, timely, and appropriately communicated.
- Facilitating community understanding of Project activities by ensuring that affected and interested stakeholders receive clear, accurate, timely, and culturally appropriate information regarding planned works, associated risks and impacts, anticipated changes, and applicable environmental and social management measures.
- Facilitating systematic identification, recording, referral, tracking, and resolution of grievances in accordance with the Environmental and Social Management Plan (ESMP) and LHDA’s Grievance Redress Mechanism (GRM), ensuring that concerns are handled promptly, transparently, fairly, and respectfully, with appropriate feedback provided to complainants.
Requirements
- Bachelor’s Degree in Social Sciences, Community Development, Development Studies, or a related field.
- Minimum of two (2) years of relevant professional experience, preferably in community engagement, stakeholder relations, social performance, or related fields.
- At least three (3) years of demonstrated experience in community engagement, stakeholder liaison, or community-based roles, preferably within infrastructure, construction, or development projects.
- Strong communication, interpersonal, negotiation, and stakeholder engagement skills, with demonstrated cultural sensitivity and the ability to work effectively with diverse communities and stakeholder groups.
- Demonstrated ability to prepare clear and professional reports in English and Sesotho.
- Demonstrated conflict management and mediation skills, with the ability to facilitate constructive dialogue and support the resolution of community concerns.
How to Apply
Frequently Asked Questions
What qualifications or education do I need to become a Community Liaison Officer in Lesotho?
Most employers require a diploma or degree in Social Sciences, Community Development, or Public Relations from institutions like the National University of Lesotho or Lerotholi Polytechnic. Experience working with local communities, chiefs, or village development councils is highly valued. Proficiency in Sesotho and English is essential for effective communication.
What are the typical day-to-day responsibilities of a Community Liaison Officer?
You will spend much of your time meeting with community leaders, chiefs, and residents to address concerns and gather feedback on company projects. Daily tasks include organizing community meetings, documenting grievances, coordinating with local authorities, and preparing reports on social impact. You may also facilitate skills training or local employment initiatives.
How does local work culture in Lesotho affect this role?
Respect for traditional authority structures, including chiefs and village committees, is fundamental to success in this position. Building trust requires patience, regular face-to-face engagement, and adherence to local customs and protocols. Punctuality and relationship-building are valued, though community meetings often follow flexible schedules based on local availability.
What career progression opportunities exist for Community Liaison Officers in Lesotho?
With experience, you can advance to Senior Community Relations Manager, Social Performance Coordinator, or Corporate Social Responsibility roles within mining, construction, or development sectors. Some professionals transition into government positions with the Ministry of Social Development or local councils. Further studies in project management or development studies can accelerate advancement.
What benefits are typically offered for contract-based Community Liaison positions?
Contract roles in Lesotho often include medical aid contributions, though pension benefits vary significantly by employer and contract duration. Annual leave entitlements typically follow Lesotho labor law minimums or project-specific agreements. Some joint ventures provide transport allowances or field subsistence given the extensive travel required.
How should I apply for a Community Liaison Officer position, and what do Lesotho employers prioritize?
Submit applications through company websites, local job portals, or directly to HR departments with a tailored CV highlighting community engagement experience. Employers prioritize candidates with proven track records in stakeholder consultation, conflict resolution, and knowledge of Lesotho's local government structures. Include references from community leaders or previous development projects where possible.