How stone masonry apprentice rose to become to celebrated entrepreneur
’MATHATO SEBOKA
MASERU – Elia Lenyora Mokuoane stands as one of Lesotho’s pioneers in present-day poultry farming, with a life story shaped by the typical challenges of growing up in rural Lesotho.
His journey, marked by resilience and determination, transformed him from humble beginnings to a celebrated entrepreneur.
At the peak of his illustrious farming career, Mokuoane’s business, the renowned Mokuoane Poultry, boasted an impressive 35,000 layer birds, supplying eggs to a majority of local businesses.
His business prowess extended beyond poultry farming, as he also sold layer chickens imported from South African manufacturers to local commercial and small poultry farmers.
A shrewd businessman, Mokuoane’s ventures included real estate, owning several properties such as Lenyora House and Matanki House, and beef farms in South Africa.
His multifaceted career also encompassed construction, with the establishment of Mokuoane Construction Company, reflecting his diverse entrepreneurial skills.
Mokuoane’s venture into poultry farming began out of necessity after leaving an unsatisfying government job as a prison officer.
In March 1974, with meagre funds and his late wife, Matankiso, by his side, he embarked on what would become a remarkable journey. The young farming family faced immense struggles, including sharing their house with chicks due to a lack of proper housing.
Despite these initial hardships, Mokuoane’s hard work and perseverance paid off. Mokuoane Poultry and Mokuoane Construction rose to prominence, as they soon emerged as noticeable leaders in their respective sectors.
’Matankiso, a full-time chicken farmer since 1974, played a crucial role in their success until her passing a few years ago.
“All this was developed through our construction company, and we thank God for His grace,” Mokuoane reflects, attributing their achievements to faith and hard work.
Today, the Mokuoane household proudly displays 14 awards, a testament to their dedication and resilience. Mokuoane’s journey is a powerful reminder that determination can overcome even the most daunting obstacles.
Born into a humble family in 1936, Mokuoane’s educational journey began in ‘Mate, Selebalo, in the Leribe district. Despite his eagerness to learn, he faced significant obstacles. By 1955, he had passed his Standard 6 but struggled to continue with regular schooling.
Realising that pursuing a Junior Certificate and Matric would be futile, Mokuoane’s teachers advised him to consider vocational training. With their guidance, he applied at Lerotholi Polytechnic, known locally as Fokothi.
His choice to enrol in the stone carving faculty was fortuitous, driven by the availability of space rather than passion.
“When I arrived at Fokothi, I found that I was the only student in the stone carving faculty,” Mokuoane recalls. “Other faculties were full, and I was accepted alone.” Mokuoane’s experience at Fokothi was both unique and isolating.
With faculties ranging from motor mechanics to carpentry and joinery, Fokothi was a hub of activity. However, Mokuoane spent his first year as the sole student in the stone carving department. The individual attention from lecturers allowed him to master his craft quickly, but the solitude was a heavy burden.
Despite the challenges, Mokuoane found motivation in his belief that Lesotho would eventually need skilled stone carvers for construction projects. His foresight proved accurate as the nation’s infrastructure demands grew.
Mokuoane’s practical approach to learning extended beyond the classroom, for instance, during school breaks, he worked for contract companies, gaining invaluable hands-on experience.
“In 1957, I worked on police residences in Mokhotlong district,” he recounts. “I chose myself as a foreman and earned £21.00 over six months.”
Unbenown to him in those years, such early experiences laid the foundation for Mokuoane’s future career. His dedication to learning and improving his skills set him apart, even when the work was undervalued by others. “Children never liked the faculty I was in, but I knew it was essential for Lesotho’s future,” he said.
After completing his education, Mokuoane joined the Public Works Department, where he continued to work while attending school. By 1960, he was earning £3.00 per month, which later converted to R18.00 when South Africa adopted the Rand. His salary increased steadily, and by 1965, he was promoted to a commanding position in Qacha’s Nek district, earning R33.00 per month.
In 1966, Mokuoane’s career took a significant turn when he was transferred to Maseru to work on prison buildings across the country, including the Maximum Security Prison. His responsibilities included budgeting for prison construction projects and training inmates, a role he found both challenging and rewarding. “My salary was R100.00, with a car allowance of R2.00 per month for four years,” he noted.
Despite his successes, Mokuoane faced a turning point in August 1973 when he resigned from his job without benefits. “I was advised to pay R50.00 to leave in peace with no pension, benefits, or gratuity,” he said.
Struggling to make ends meet, he decided to return to the public works sector in 1975, registering a construction contract that quickly advanced from category C to A.
Mokuoane’s company, Mokuoane Construction Company, thrived under his leadership. Between 1975 and 1994, it undertook numerous government projects, private sector initiatives, and community developments. “With the profits from these projects, I supported my household and reinvested in our poultry business,” he said.
In 1995, Mokuoane’s company received the 16th International Africa Award in Ivory Coast, Abidjan, a prestigious accolade from Spain. Even after retiring, Mokuoane continued to earn commissions for his past work, ensuring financial stability for his family.
Today, Mokuoane’s legacy is not only evident in his business achievements but also in the resilience and determination that defined his journey. His story serves as an inspiration to many, illustrating that with hard work, perseverance, and faith, one can overcome obstacle and achieve greatness.
Mokuoane’s journey from a humble beginning to a celebrated entrepreneur is a testament to the power of resilience and determination. His life and work continue to inspire future generations in Lesotho and beyond.
