Seabata Mahao
Econet Telecom Lesotho (ETL) recently concluded its Econet Expo 2024, which was a hive of activity buzzing with influential leaders, partners, and key stakeholders within Lesotho’s digital landscape.
The four-day expo showcased ETL’s evolution from a telecommunications operator to a fully integrated digital services provider, reaffirming its commitment to driving digital transformation across the nation.
Centered on the theme, “Driving the Digital Economy,” the expo featured live product demonstrations and panel discussions covering artificial intelligence (AI), Financial Technology (fintech), and cybersecurity.
ETL’s latest digital solutions were also on display, highlighting the company’s dedication to expanding broadband access, supporting local businesses, and promoting digital literacy.
The event attracted government officials, corporate leaders, and tech innovators, who discussed the need for enhanced digital infrastructure, the impact of public-private partnerships, and the potential of new technologies in vital sectors such as education, healthcare, and finance.
Conversations emphasised the importance of public and private sector alignment to create a digitally inclusive society.
ETL CEO Dennis Plattjies praised stakeholders, exhibitors, and partners for contributing to the expo’s success. He highlighted ETL’s significant investments over the past year, aimed at fostering innovation and creating a collaborative environment for digital growth.
“This event is about more than technology; it’s about building a culture of collaboration to propel Lesotho into a prosperous digital future. We are especially focused on empowering schools with digital innovations, ensuring education is central to our digital transformation journey,” Plattjies remarked.
“The 2024 Econet Expo is just the beginning. Innovation thrives in collaborative environments, and this Expo shows what’s possible when government, businesses, and the people of Lesotho unite. We’re looking forward to an even bigger Expo next year.”
ETL reiterated its dedication to expanding digital infrastructure and deepening connectivity in underserved areas, with plans to develop e-commerce and digital financial services to promote financial inclusion among Basotho.
Nizam Goolam, the chief executive officer for Lesotho Communications Authority’s (LCA) emphasised the importance of cybersecurity in a rapidly digitising world.
“As we digitise and bring on-board more people into the digital world, we must be aware of the increasing risks. Cybersecurity must remain a priority,” Goolam stressed
The expo provided local entrepreneurs an opportunity to showcase their products and services, underscoring ETL’s support for small businesses and the entrepreneurial ecosystem in Lesotho. Many attending entrepreneurs praised the event for opening new avenues for possible partnerships and collaboration.
The attendees left with a shared understanding that transformative growth is achievable through sustained collaboration, with ETL leading the journey toward a digitally empowered Lesotho.
