Telecommunications giant Econet Telecom Lesotho (ETL) has strengthened its commitment to digital inclusion and community development through an investment exceeding M2 million in Sehlabeng-sa-Thuathe, Berea, where it unveiled a new network tower and handed over a modern kitchen facility to Senekane Primary School.
The projects, officially launched on Friday during a ceremony attended by community members, school authorities and ETL officials, are expected to enhance communication services while improving learning conditions for pupils at the school.
The investment includes the construction of a telecommunications tower aimed at expanding network coverage in the area, as well as a two-room kitchen valued at M60 000, built as part of ETL’s corporate social responsibility programme.
Speaking during the handover ceremony, ETL Chief Executive Officer Dennis Plaatjies said the company remains focused on expanding network infrastructure across Lesotho while contributing to the socio-economic development of local communities.
“It is our responsibility and commitment as Econet Telecom Lesotho to provide network coverage that enables communication and mobile financial services across various platforms,” Plaatjies said.
“We take that responsibility seriously because it is through such initiatives that livelihoods are improved. Businesses rely on our services to grow, while children depend on the internet for research and learning. Communication with friends and loved ones should never be interrupted.”
The new tower is expected to improve voice and data connectivity in the surrounding villages, creating opportunities for businesses, learners and households to access digital services more efficiently.
Plaatjies noted that ETL had deployed a team to the area to educate residents about the company’s products and services, including affordable connectivity packages, EcoSure insurance solutions and budget-friendly mobile devices.
“They will explain some of the exciting packages we offer, all aimed at delivering quality services and improving people’s lives,” he said.
The ETL chief also appealed to residents to safeguard the newly constructed infrastructure, warning that vandalism could reverse development gains and deprive the community of critical services.
“I wish to make a special appeal to everyone here today to protect this tower because it stands to benefit the entire community. Its presence represents many development opportunities, not only for the school but for everyone living in this area,” he said.
“We have already engaged the police to assist with safeguarding the tower, but we hope the community itself will see it as a valuable asset and protect it accordingly.”
Beyond telecommunications infrastructure, Plaatjies highlighted another challenge facing Senekane Primary School – the absence of electricity. He expressed disappointment that despite the new developments, the school remains without power, limiting opportunities for digital transformation.
“One of the things I had hoped to see after the completion of this tower was internet connectivity in the staff room and school offices. However, I was disappointed to learn that the school does not have electricity,” he said.
Plaatjies pledged that ETL would honour its commitment to provide internet connectivity to the school and would advocate for the institution to be connected to the national electricity grid.
“I have already assured the school authorities that we will provide the promised internet connection to support digitisation at the school. I will also do everything within my power to help ensure that electricity is brought to the school. It is important for a facility of this size to have access to electricity,” he added.
For Senekane Primary School, the projects represent a significant improvement in infrastructure and service delivery.
School principal ’MapitsoMahase expressed appreciation to ETL for its investment, describing the developments as transformative for the institution.
“The efforts made by ETL to upgrade our premises have greatly improved our environment. Through these initiatives, we are truly experiencing God’s mercy,” Mahase said.
“I would like to thank ETL for making this possible and everyone who contributed towards the successful completion of these projects.”
Mahase further recognised the collective effort of the school board, teachers, support staff and pupils, who assisted throughout the construction process.
“The school board members were always available to assist, staff members sacrificed their time, even during school holidays, and pupils helped builders fetch water from the nearest source,” she said.
“Our cooks also played their part by ensuring adequate water storage was available. Each and every one of you contributed in a special way, and today we are celebrating the results of that collaboration.”
She added that the school and surrounding community would welcome ETL’s support in securing electricity access, noting that residents have waited many years for the service.
Summary
- Telecommunications giant Econet Telecom Lesotho (ETL) has strengthened its commitment to digital inclusion and community development through an investment exceeding M2 million in Sehlabeng-sa-Thuathe, Berea, where it unveiled a new network tower and handed over a modern kitchen facility to Senekane Primary School.
- The investment includes the construction of a telecommunications tower aimed at expanding network coverage in the area, as well as a two-room kitchen valued at M60 000, built as part of ETL’s corporate social responsibility programme.
- Plaatjies pledged that ETL would honour its commitment to provide internet connectivity to the school and would advocate for the institution to be connected to the national electricity grid.
Seabata Mahao is a general news reporter with special focus on Business and Sports. Started working at Newsday in 2021. Working in a team with a shared goal is what I enjoy most and that gives me the motivation to work under any environment leading to growth.
