Thoboloko Ntšonyane
MASERU – Nkau Matete’s pursuit of making a difference in the lives of many has rewarded him handsomely and this was manifest last week when he was honoured by His Majesty, King Letsie III ahead of his 60th birthday.
The captain of industry has been recognized for his contributions over the years making strides in the corporate sector in Lesotho. He has held various leadership positions, including the role of Managing Director (MD). Currently, he serves as the MD at Nedbank Lesotho, becoming the first to hold such a position.
He was bestowed with the Most Loyal Order of Ramatšeatsana by His Majesty King Letsie III “in recognition for his accomplishments as a distinguished corporate executive of unparalleled competence and considerable upliftment of society through varied corporates social investment initiatives during his tenure as the Chief Executive of various private sector institutions”.
The Most Loyal Order of Ramatšeatsana, is an award for distinguished service by members of the civilians and members of the disciplined forces.
Speaking at the Royal Palace grounds, he thanked the people who forwarded his name for nomination to the King saying he treasures the contribution he has made, be it in education, through schools and sports and in various institutions, the youth saying he will “forever cherish those”.
Matete told this publication that corporate work often demands a delicate balancing act, as it can be strenuous and challenging. However, he indicated that it is crucial for one to effectively work with his team and constantly deliver results expected from them. This he said, when asked about challenges he encounters in his line of work.
The recognition to him he said “it is a very humbling recognition” adding that “I really want to thank the companies that gave me the opportunity to extend where people started seeing my worth and contribution to the society, in my current role for the Nedbank and my previous role as chief executive at Metropolitan. I thank these corporations because it is through them that I was recognized,” he said.
Matete was awarded the Most Loyal Order of Ramatšeatsana along with Prof Tebello Nyokong, albeit in absentia, Ts’eliso Mokoai and Hon Thabo Maretlane.
Some of the recipients of this prestigious national award include the former President of South Africa, Nelson Mandela, for playing a critical role in the fight against apartheid in that country.
Asked what drives his passion and dedication over the years in his profession, he said “is to make a difference in people’s lives in whatever way I can.
“I think what is humbling is that the people see the efforts that I did in those various [instances], whether it’s serving communities or growing young people to be the leaders of the future”.