Jonsson Workwear bridges digital divide
Subsidizes smartphones for 2 776 staff members
BOKANG MOSHOESHOE
MASERU – Jonsson Workwear has launched a landmark initiative to equip its Lesotho workforce with affordable smartphones, tackling digital exclusion while advancing its mission to “build a better life for all.”
The Hello Connect campaign, rolled out in late July, has already seen 2 776 employees at Jonsson Manufacturing Lesotho (JML) sign up for subsidized devices.
The programme addresses a critical gap identified by the company, many workers lacked smartphones capable of accessing essential internal platforms like the Jonsson CommUnity app (company news), Workforce (staff updates) and Jonsson Learn (skills development). Without these tools, employees faced barriers to communication, training and career growth.
“Hello Connect is about breaking down barriers to connection, learning, and growth,” said Nick Jonsson, CEO of Jonsson Workwear. “Whether staying informed through our apps or using online learning, this creates real opportunities.”
Key benefits for staff include affordable access, flexible payments, full support and zero data costs. Employees can purchase new Mobicel smartphones at a fraction of retail cost, have 12-month installment plans via salary deductions, their devices include airtime allowances, charging cables, headsets, protective covers, and a 12-month warranty as well as free Wi-Fi at JML facilities for work-related use.
The campaign aligns with Jonsson’s holistic approach to employee and community welfare. JML already provides on-site healthcare services, staff feeding schemes and community food aid programmes – notably during Lesotho’s 2024 drought.
By integrating digital access with existing health, nutrition, and skills initiatives, Jonsson aims to strengthen both its workforce and the social fabric of surrounding communities.
With nearly 3 000 workers enrolled within weeks, Hello Connect underscores high demand for work-ready technology. The initiative positions JML employees to actively participate in the company’s digital transformation while gaining vital 21st-century skills.
As one of several people-centred strategies by Jonsson Workwear, Hello Connect reflects a corporate ethos where investing in human capital is inseparable from operational success and community resilience.
