Vodacom calls for ethics, compliance
Bokang Moshoeshoe
MASERU – In a significant step towards promoting responsible corporate behaviour, Vodacom Lesotho hosted a high-level forum aimed at fostering ethical business practices and robust compliance frameworks. The event brought together stakeholders from both the public and private sectors to openly discuss challenges, share strategies, and promote a culture of integrity across the business landscape.
The forum held in Maseru served as a powerful platform for peer-to-peer learning, with a strong focus on ethical conduct, regulatory compliance, and building a solid foundation for long-term sustainability was graced by the presences of senior executives, legal experts and compliance officers who exchanged insights and best practises for fostering ethical conduct in their respective organizations.
Delivering the keynote address, Vodacom Lesotho CEO Mohale Ralebitso reaffirmed the company’s unwavering commitment to ethical business practices emphasising the importance of a unified approach to business ethics.
“Our firm commitment to the highest ethical standards is the bedrock of our operations and the foundation of trust with our stakeholders, it is not simply about compliance it is a strategic imperative that governs how we do business, ensuring every transaction is conducted with integrity,” Ralebitso stated.
Ralebitso went on to explain that Vodacom Lesotho backs its commitment with concrete actions, including a strict zero-tolerance policy on bribery and corruption.
He emphasized the importance of protecting customer privacy and data assets, adding that trust and reputation are critical in today’s business environment, as their ethical framework is their strongest defence against risk and the key to their sustainable long-term growth.
Rethabile Hoohlo, Executive Head of Legal and Compliance at Vodacom Lesotho, echoed the sentiment in her welcome address when she highlighted the critical role of compliance in ensuring sustainability.
As she stated that Vodacom understands that a strong compliance culture represents more than just regulatory fulfilment.
It is a core strategic asset, vital to preserving their brand integrity and reputation. She further stressed the importance of collective commitment and resource sharing to create a compliance environment that not only meets but exceeds mandated standards.
The forum also featured insights from the Directorate on Corruption and Economic Offences (DCEO).
Speaking on behalf of the DCEO, Khauhelo Maliehe urged all citizens of Lesotho to report any corruption-related activities.
“Corruption is a serious abuse of power and resources. It includes bribery, fraud, and embezzlement, all of which have a devastating impact on economic growth and prosperity. It is the DCEO’s determination, with our 125 officers, we will fight tooth and nail to eliminate corruption,” Maliehe stressed.
Representing Vodacom Lesotho’s internal efforts, Compliance Manager ‘Mabereng Mokhothu reinforced the company’s strict stance against any form of corruption as their employees and representatives are strictly prohibited from offering or accepting anything of value intended to improperly influence decisions.
Mokhothu also detailed internal Vodacom company policies that mandate gift registration, due diligence on sponsored entities, and mandatory anti-corruption training to build a strong culture of accountability and compliance.
The forum featured panel discussions, case studies and interactive sessions that explored the evolving compliance landscape, the role of technology in ensuring transparency and strategies for inserting ethical values into corporate culture.
It then closed with a shared message: building an ethical business environment in Lesotho is a collective responsibility. Public and private sectors must work hand in hand to uphold integrity, fight corruption, and pave the way for a prosperous future rooted in ethical conduct.
