AN ENTERPRISING Maseru businessman has found a way of easing transport problems for his fellow citizens.

The dirty foam material floating on the murky waters of Maqalika Dam in Maseru, Lesotho, might look like a waste board from a scrapyard, but for locals it is their only mode of transport.

The 3m-long cushioning foam has been converted into a communal boat to cross the dam that separates Maseru East and Mokoti township.

In the past, locals - including pupils - would walk about 3km around the dam to their destinations such as schools, workplaces and the shops.

However, a local brick maker, Matee Mohapi, ended the long walk four years ago when he bought the foam material from a factory to help his neighbours. The locals use the boat at no fee.

Tankiso Tsoelieane and his friend Kamohelo Mafaesa have been looking after the boat for the past four years - a task that is proving difficult for them.

"This boat was about 10m long when we go it. But the foam keeps shredding away because of weather and passengers' foot-marks. It's useful in these parts and people appreciate it. We use it until late at night," Mafaesa said.

The boat's main features are its two seats, which are stacked bricks. It can accommodate up to four people at a time. Users are given a paddle - a broomstick - before crossing. The anchor is just a stick that gets plunged anywhere on the soft banks.

"We've never had any accidents since we had this boat. Despite that, young women are scared [of boarding it] but gogos use it without a worry," said Tsoelieane.

Seoli Mokokomali, a maintenance worker in the neighbourhood, uses the boat daily to transport work equipment. "It's not safe but I use it because it's convenient for me. It was tough before we had it."

Mohapi was not available when Sowetan visited his house at the weekend.

sifilel@sowetan.co.za

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