Econet Telecom Lesotho (ETL) has received international recognition after global connectivity intelligence firm Ookla named it Lesotho’s Fastest Mobile Network for the first half of 2026.
The recognition, based on independently collected, real-world consumer network performance data, provides an assessment of mobile network experiences across the country during the first six months of the year.
Patrick Linder, Vice-President of Telco Marketing Strategy and Design at Ookla, said the recognition reflected ETL’s leading network performance.
“We are excited to announce that ETL has the Fastest Mobile Network in Lesotho, validated by Speedtest Verified,” Linder said.
He said the recognition highlighted the performance of ETL’s network, adding that Ookla was proud to affirm the achievement.
The recognition comes as ETL undertakes one of its most extensive network modernisationprogrammes, with recent upgrades nearly tripling its active 5G footprint while also strengthening 4G coverage across Lesotho.
According to the company, the investments are intended to improve customers’ everyday digital experiences, including faster browsing, smoother video streaming, more responsive gaming and digital services, clearer voice calls and improved access to connectivity.
ETL Chief Executive Officer Dennis Plaatjies said the recognition was a reflection of sustained investment in network infrastructure and the contribution of teams across the organisation.
“Receiving these Speedtest Awards from Ookla is a moment of immense pride for everyone at ETL,” Plaatjies said.
“These accolades are far more than industry recognition, they are an independent validation of our commitment to continuously investing in a network that delivers exceptional experiences for our customers every day.”
Plaatjies said reliable connectivity was becoming increasingly important to Lesotho’s digital development as more aspects of everyday life moved online.
He noted that improved connectivity was helping businesses expand, enabling students to access learning opportunities, keeping families connected and allowing entrepreneurs to access new markets and opportunities.
The recognition comes amid growing demand for high-speed broadband, digital financial services, artificial intelligence-enabled services and other emerging technologies.
ETL said it would continue expanding and modernising its network to meet changing customer needs while supporting Lesotho’s broader digital development.
“While we celebrate this milestone, we see it as motivation to continue investing in our network and delivering even greater value for the people of Lesotho,” Plaatjies said.
Summary
- The recognition, based on independently collected, real-world consumer network performance data, provides an assessment of mobile network experiences across the country during the first six months of the year.
- ETL Chief Executive Officer Dennis Plaatjies said the recognition was a reflection of sustained investment in network infrastructure and the contribution of teams across the organisation.
- “While we celebrate this milestone, we see it as motivation to continue investing in our network and delivering even greater value for the people of Lesotho,” Plaatjies said.
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.
