Boost for domestic rugby

… as Econet Telecom Lesotho donates essential gear

NTHAKO MAJORO

MASERU – The Federation of Lesotho Rugby (FLR) has received a significant boost from their long-time sponsors, Econet Telecom Lesotho, aimed at improving domestic rugby. The telecommunications giant donated rugby equipment worth over M20,000 to FLR at an event held at Setsoto Stadium on Wednesday. The equipment included corner flags, marker wedges, and post-protectors. “Telecommunications giant Econet Telecom Lesotho is proud to announce the handover of essential rugby equipment worth over M20, 000 to the Federation of Rugby Lesotho (FLR),” reads Econet press statement.

“This is part of the telecommunications giant’s ongoing commitment to nurture and grow the sport in the Mountain Kingdom.” The press statement further details: “The donated equipment includes corner flags, marker wedges, and protectors, all crucial for the safe and effective conduct of rugby matches.”

Econet highlighted in the press statement that these donations mark a milestone in their partnership with FLR. “This handover is another milestone in the strong partnership between Econet and the Federation of Lesotho Rugby, aimed at elevating the standards and visibility of rugby in the country.”

Econet is the official sponsor of the domestic rugby league, known as the Econet Rugby League. “Econet Telecom Lesotho has a longstanding relationship with Lesotho’s rugby community, highlighted by its sponsorship of over M1.5 million to the sport since 2013. “This season Econet generously contributed M170, 000.00 towards the Econet Rugby League, ensuring that the teams have the resources they need to compete at their best.”

Econet further quoted their GM-Marketing Communications and Customer Experience, ’Mapuseletso Ntšekhe: “We are thrilled to support the Federation of Lesotho Rugby with this vital equipment. “Rugby is a sport that brings people together, foster teamwork, and promotes fitness.”

Ntšekhe said by providing the equipment for domestic rugby, Econet hopes to inspire young people to play the sport. “By providing these items, we hope to contribute to the development and growth of rugby in Lesotho while also continuing to inspire young people to take up the sport.” FLR president Fetang Selialia expressed gratitude for Econet’s continued support.

“Econet sponsorship and this latest donation are vital to the growth of rugby in the country,” Selialia was quoted in the press statement. “With proper equipment we can ensure the safety of our players and smooth running of our matches.” Selialia further said: “We are excited about the future of rugby in Lesotho, thanks to partners like Econet.”

The Econet-FLR partnership began in 2012. At the time, Lesotho only had one team, the Maseru Kings. The now-defunct Maseru Kings, later renamed the Giants, were then competing in one of the Free State rugby leagues in South Africa.