VCL injects 1 million boost for Maletsunyane Festival
KABELO MASOABI
Maseru – The Maletsunyane Braai Festival, an iconic event in Lesotho, has received a generous M1 million sponsorship from leading telecommunications company Vodacom Lesotho. This sponsorship will play a significant role in ensuring the success of the festival, according to the Executive Head of Department: M-pesa Commercial, Mpho Mosotho. The festival, set to take place from November 29 to December 1, near the 204-metre Maletsunyane Falls in Semonkong on the outskirts of Maseru, attracts both local and international attendees, making it the largest braai event in Lesotho.
Mosotho emphasised that the sponsorship is intended to promote local businesses by encouraging the use of M-pesa for transactions, thereby benefiting M-pesa merchants.
“The aim of this sponsorship is to support small businesses, ensure the security of financial transactions, and contribute to the economic development of the country,” she said. During the recent unveiling event of the sponsorship at Vodacom Park in Maseru, Mosotho highlighted Vodacom’s efforts in introducing a digital payment platform called Patala Ka Mpesa in 2013. This platform enables consumers to make online purchases from both large and small registered businesses. She said the sponsorship of M1 million will enhance the festival experience by allowing attendees to make secure and convenient transactions using M-pesa, thereby providing support to the local business community without the need for cash.
In addition, the festival organisers, OBT Events, have announced that tickets for the carnival and camping will be available for purchase via M-pesa services. This partnership between the festival and Vodacom Lesotho’s M-pesa services is set to offer festival-goers a seamless and modern payment experience while also bolstering local businesses and the economy at large. Stakeholder Engagement Officer at OBT Events, Bokang Kheekhe, spoke about their commitment to promoting the cashless system to improve user experience and efficiency at the festival. He underlined their dedication to customer satisfaction and assured their determination to fulfill their promises.
OBT Head of Marketing, Tanki Pule, described Lesotho as a country with a rich cultural heritage that is deeply rooted in traditions and customs. He said attending the festival offers a unique opportunity to engage with Basotho culture, connect with local traditions, and explore its breathtaking landscapes. Additionally, the festival organisers plan to introduce improvements for the upcoming 2024 event, including addressing challenges such as water scarcity and enhancing security measures.
On the entertainment side, Pule said local artistes will command the stage, with acclaimed performers Sannere and Omali Themba having already confirmed to feature at the carnival. The iconic event celebrates the country’s heritage through music, food, and traditional activities.
