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Four days of hi-tech gadgets, robotics and AI

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Seabata Mahao
Seabata Mahao
Senior journalist and communications professional with extensive experience in general news reporting, specializing in business and sports journalism. Skilled in public speaking, media relations, and strategic communication, with a proven ability to deliver accurate, engaging, and impactful stories. A strong team player who thrives in collaborative environments and adapts effectively to diverse working conditions. Passionate about continuous learning, professional growth, and enhancing communication practices to meet evolving industry demands.

Econet Telecom Lesotho (ETL) is set to host the fourth edition of the Econet Expo from October 27 to 30 at Maseru Mall, bringing together technology brands, businesses, innovators and the public to explore emerging digital solutions under the theme, “Think AI. Think Econet.”

The four-day event comes after ETL was recognised by global connectivity intelligence company Ookla as Lesotho’s Fastest Mobile Network for the first half of 2026, a milestone the company attributes to its continued investment in network infrastructure, digital innovation and customer experience.

This year’s expo will feature the official launch of Apple’s iPhone 18, alongside exhibitions by international and local technology partners. Visitors will also have an opportunity to experience robotics, virtual reality, gaming, smart home solutions, artificial intelligence (AI) applications and pre-loved devices, with giveaways planned throughout the event.

Speaking ahead of the expo, ETL’s acting General Manager for Marketing Communications and Customer Experience, Puleng Masoabi, said the event reflects the company’s ambition to position Lesotho for an AI-powered future through improved connectivity and greater access to digital technologies.

“Our recent recognition by Ookla as Lesotho’s Fastest Mobile Network is a testament to our continued investment in building the digital infrastructure that our country needs. However, connectivity is only part of the equation,” Masoabi said.

She added that the company aims to move beyond providing fast and reliable connectivity to helping Basotho participate meaningfully in the digital economy.

“We have made a deliberate decision to be at the forefront of artificial intelligence adoption in Lesotho, ensuring that these technologies are not merely global trends we observe, but practical solutions that our people can access and benefit from,” she said.

A key feature of the company’s digital strategy is EcoAI, Econet’s artificial intelligence platform, which supports both English and Sesotho. The platform provides access to AI-powered tools, with payments available through airtime and EcoCash.

Masoabi said EcoAI is intended to address barriers that prevent people from accessing AI technologies, particularly affordability, language and accessibility.

“Through EcoAI, ETL is taking practical steps to remove barriers to artificial intelligence, particularly affordability, language and accessibility. We want a student in Mokhotlong, an entrepreneur in Mafeteng or a business owner in Maseru to have the opportunity to harness AI to learn, innovate and become more productive,” she said.

She said the company envisions a digital future in which technology creates opportunities for people regardless of their background or geographical location.

Beyond product exhibitions, the Econet Expo will host discussions on the practical application of AI in Lesotho, financial technology (FinTech), digital transformation and the role of technology in addressing socioeconomic challenges.

The discussions are expected to explore how digital solutions can contribute to tackling youth unemployment and strengthening digital skills development, particularly among young people seeking opportunities in the evolving digital economy.

Masoabi encouraged schools, entrepreneurs, businesses and members of the public to attend the expo, saying the event would provide an opportunity to discover technologies that can support learning, innovation and business growth.

“We want young Basotho to see themselves as future innovators and creators of technology, while enabling businesses to discover solutions that enhance efficiency and competitiveness,” she said.

“The Econet Expo is about bringing those possibilities to life and demonstrating that the future of technology is already within our reach,” Masoabi concluded.

Summary

  • Econet Telecom Lesotho (ETL) is set to host the fourth edition of the Econet Expo from October 27 to 30 at Maseru Mall, bringing together technology brands, businesses, innovators and the public to explore emerging digital solutions under the theme, “Think AI.
  • Speaking ahead of the expo, ETL’s acting General Manager for Marketing Communications and Customer Experience, Puleng Masoabi, said the event reflects the company’s ambition to position Lesotho for an AI-powered future through improved connectivity and greater access to digital technologies.
  • We want a student in Mokhotlong, an entrepreneur in Mafeteng or a business owner in Maseru to have the opportunity to harness AI to learn, innovate and become more productive,” she said.
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