Staff Reporters
Telecommunications giant, Econet Telecom Lesotho has taken a bold step to support informal traders and hawkers across the Mountain Kingdom by donating 55 gazebos valued at approximately M500 000 to create more accommodating and convenient working spaces for them, many of whom face daily challenges posed by harsh weather conditions.
Commenting about this benevolent gesture, Econet’s Acting GM – Marketing Communications and Customer Experience Puleng Mathabo Masoabi noted: “this donation is a clear reflection of Econet’s commitment to fostering entrepreneurship and supporting the growth of small businesses in Lesotho.”
“The gazebos, which are currently being distributed across various districts, will provide much-needed shelter to the vendors who sell food, fruits, and other necessities. For years, these entrepreneurs have braved scalding heat, heavy rains, and strong winds, all of which have had a detrimental impact on their businesses,” Masoabi added.
She went on to emphasise that with this gesture, Econet hopes to not only improve their working conditions but also enhance their ability to serve their customers more efficiently.
“We understand the crucial role that street vendors and hawkers play in our economy. They are the heartbeat of many communities, providing essential goods and services.”
She concluded by underscoring that they are also encouraging the hawkers to use EcoCash Spache-Fono for transactions so that they can safely secure their daily earnings and offer greater convenience to their customers.
One of the beneficiaries, ‘Maphole Thakaso who has been selling food in the bustling streets of Maseru since 2015, near the Ministry of Health Headquarters expressed her gratitude to Econet for the support.
“This gazebo is a blessing for to me and my business. The weather has always been a challenge, but now, I can work comfortably, knowing that my stuff and I are protected from the elements of weather. It will make a big difference in attracting more customers.”
“The support from Econet to help us use EcoCash as part of this initiative is something I have needed for a very long time. It makes our transactions more convenient and safer,” Thakaso noted.
As the roll-out of these gazebos continues, ETL reaffirms its commitment to the community by ensuring that the backbone of the local economy—the street vendors—have the support they need to grow and succeed in their businesses.
