Econet introduces travel eSIM for international travelers

Telecommunications company Econet Telecom Lesotho (ETL) has introduced a Travel eSIM service designed to provide customers travelling outside Lesotho with convenient access to mobile data without the need to buy or change physical SIM cards at their destinations.

The new digital connectivity service is aimed at customers travelling for business, leisure, studies or family visits. It allows users with compatible smartphones to select a destination-specific data plan online, pay for the service and install the eSIM digitally before departure or while travelling.

Once customers arrive at their destination, the Travel eSIM connects to a supported mobile network, enabling them to access mobile data while abroad.

The introduction comes as mobile connectivity becomes increasingly important to international travelers, who rely on data services to communicate, navigate unfamiliar destinations, manage travel bookings, access emails and banking services, and use other online platforms.

ETL Acting General Manager – Products and Services, KetjaNhlapo, said the service expands the connectivity options available to customers travelling beyond Lesotho’s borders.

“Customers increasingly rely on digital services wherever they go, and travelling should not interrupt that experience. With Econet’s Travel eSIM, we are giving our customers another convenient way to prepare for their connectivity needs before they travel and access connectivity when they reach their destination,” Nhlapo said.

Unlike conventional physical SIM cards, an eSIM is installed digitally on a compatible smartphone. This means customers can retain their normal Econet SIM in their device while selecting the Travel eSIM as their mobile data line when abroad.

Nhlapo said the service could also help travellers prepare for their connectivity needs before leaving the country.

“Travel comes with many things to organise, and connectivity is increasingly one of the essentials. Econet’s Travel eSIM gives customers an opportunity to prepare their mobile data before departure, just as they prepare their flights, accommodation and other travel arrangements,” he said.

However, customers are required to ensure that their smartphones support eSIM technology before making a purchase.

Nhlapo advised customers to dial *#06# on their smartphones and check whether an EID appears among the device information displayed, as this indicates eSIM compatibility.

The available Travel eSIM packages differ according to destination, data allowance, validity period and price, giving customers the flexibility to select a package that corresponds with their travel requirements.

The plans can be purchased using either airtime or EcoCash. The Travel eSIM becomes active only at the destination for which the selected plan is applicable, allowing customers to purchase their connectivity in advance while maintaining control over their spending.

Nhlapo said the service forms part of ETL’s broader efforts to develop digital solutions in response to changing customer needs.

“Innovation should ultimately make things easier for our customers. As the way people live, work and travel becomes more digital, we have to continue developing solutions that give our customers greater convenience and choice in how they stay connected,” he said.

Travel eSIM is an additional international connectivity option alongside ETL’s existing international roaming service. The service is data-only for supported destinations outside Lesotho and does not replace customers’ local ETL data bundles.

Customers can purchase and access the service through Econet Travel eSIM or through the Roaming section of the ETL website.

Seabata Mahao

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.