Econet Telecom Lesotho Donates M200,000 to Support LDF Youth Development Programme

In a major boost for youth empowerment initiatives in Lesotho, Econet Telecom Lesotho, through its SASAI Financial Services division, has donated M200,000 to the Lesotho Defence Force (LDF) Youth Development Programme. The contribution was officially handed over during a ceremony held at Ratjomose Barracks on Wednesday, marking another milestone in the private sector’s role in supporting national development efforts.

Representing Econet CEO during the event, Mr. Lehlohonolo Matee reaffirmed the company’s dedication to empowering the country’s young people and working collaboratively with institutions like the LDF. He described the donation as a reflection of Econet’s belief in youth as the cornerstone of Lesotho’s future.

“Through this gesture, we are proud to partner with the LDF, an institution that is equally committed to youth development,” Mr. Matee said. “We believe that by investing in the youth, we are investing in a better and transformed Lesotho.”

The LDF Youth Development Programme is designed to equip young Basotho with life skills, discipline, and leadership training to help them become productive members of society. The programme also focuses on instilling civic responsibility, physical fitness, and self-confidence, making it a strong complement to the values Econet promotes through its social investment initiatives.

Mr. Matee highlighted that Econet consistently allocates 2 percent of its annual revenue to the Econet Higher Life Foundation, a philanthropic arm of the company that provides educational support to deserving students in both secondary and tertiary institutions. These scholarships are offered locally and internationally, with a focus on nurturing leadership potential and academic excellence.

“We don’t just want to fund education—we want to empower leaders,” said Matee. “Through our Foundation, we are opening doors for many Basotho youth who otherwise might never get the chance to pursue their academic dreams.”

The M200,000 donation is expected to go a long way in enhancing the capacity of the LDF Youth Development Programme, expanding its reach, and improving the quality of training and resources available to participants.

This partnership between Econet and the LDF demonstrates how strategic collaborations between the private sector and public institutions can accelerate national development, particularly by empowering young people with the tools they need to build meaningful futures.

As Lesotho continues to face youth unemployment and skills shortages, initiatives like this serve as a blueprint for impactful corporate citizenship—proving that when businesses invest in youth, they invest in a stronger, more resilient nation.