Mapula Makara is a distinguished Attorney and Notary Public in Lesotho with extensive experience in legal practice, environmental law, and development facilitation. She holds an LLB in International Law from the University of Edinburgh, Scotland, and an LLM in Environmental Law from the University of London. Additionally, Mapula has completed a postgraduate course in Environmental Sociology from the University of the Witwatersrand.

With over thirty years of experience, Mapula’s career has focused on legal development, environmental law, and community engagement. She began her legal journey at Lesotho’s first female-owned law firm, reflecting her commitment to pioneering women’s roles in the legal profession.

Notable Professional Experience:

• Board Member, Lesotho Highlands Water Project: Contributed her expertise in legal and environmental governance.
• Environmental Relations Manager, Sasol: Managed environmental relations and corporate communication projects.
• Development Alternatives Incorporated (DAI): Worked on a significant project assisting communities near the Kruger National Park within the Great Limpopo Transfrontier Conservation Area, helping them create sustainable, natural resource-based enterprises.
• International Assignments: Mapula has worked with donor and development organizations such as GTZ and the SADC Water Sector, focusing on water resource management and sustainable development initiatives.

Mapula combines her rich academic foundation with practical legal expertise to address challenges in environmental law, community development, conservation, and sustainable resource use, positioning her as a key player in cross-border legal and environmental matters. Her professional journey underscores her leadership in facilitating sustainable development and environmental stewardship through legal avenues