By: Mpho Shelile
Maseru – Sebabatso celebrates entrepreneurial excellence by honoring 30 exceptional young entrepreneurs and innovators this year.
The event, which encourages innovation, hard work, and dedication, aims to inspire a thriving entrepreneurial culture among the youth and small business owners, helping to stimulate Lesotho’s economic growth.
The initiative not only recognizes talent but further empowers participants with tangible support to build sustainable businesses. Sebabatso reflects Lesotho’s commitment to reducing youth unemployment by creating opportunities that foster innovation and community development.
The 30 participants who made it to the final stages received certificates of recognition and cash prizes for their contributions to their communities and the economy. These symbolic awards validate the participants’ entrepreneurial efforts and serve as an incentive to continue their journeys despite challenges.
From this group, several outstanding individuals were awarded cash prizes, reflecting the diversity of skills and business ideas in Lesotho.
Participants in the 21-30 category, each receiving a cash prize of M18, 000.00, included, Entrepreneurs: Itumeleng Moleko, Utloanang Ntieane, Limpho Masiou, Kelebuhile Mabuso, and Neo Sekhesa.
Innovators: Lebohang Mpiti, Mosa Kuape, Tebello Phosholi, Boithati Moeketsi, and Letšekha Ntale. Participants in the 11-20 category were awarded M45,000.00 each, Entrepreneurs: Puseletso Sekese, Khaolo Ramarumo, Puseletso Phetoane, and Thulo Mokhathali.
Innovators: Tumo Tlohang, Leloko Mothebe, Katleho Makunya, Mablessing Chabana, and Joalane Mohale. Participants ranked 6-10, awarded M54,000.00 each to support their businesses, included, Morongoe Falatsi, Makutloano Majoro, Bokang Putsoa, and Makefolo Motebang.
The highlight of the ceremony was the announcement of the Top 6 winners, who were each awarded the grand prize of M90,000.00. These individuals were recognized for their innovative solutions, business acumen, and potential to create jobs and uplift their communities. The winners were: Mojalefa Mokotso, Boka Tabane, Teboho Mosala, Thakane Mahase, Tlesi Ramalela, Molise Mahasela.
In his acceptance speech, Teboho Mosala expressed gratitude for the recognition, noting that the Sebabatso experience had been transformational. “The exposure and support we’ve received motivate us to dream bigger and work toward our goals,” he said. Mosala plans to use part of the prize money to expand production at his paper bag company, demonstrating the immediate impact of the awards.
The Minister of Information, Communications, Science and Technology, Hon. Nthati Moorosi, commended the participants for their creativity, dedication, and contributions to the country’s economic development.
“Sebabatso celebrates the youth’s potential to shape the future of Lesotho’s economy. Today is not the end but the beginning of many opportunities,” she said, encouraging participants to take their ideas to the next level.
She further announced that some of the top innovators would represent Lesotho at YouthConnekt Africa in Rwanda, reinforcing the significance of local entrepreneurship on the global stage.
Mrs. Mahlape Makakole-Boliba, a representative from Sebabatso, highlighted the program’s long-term vision. “Our objective is not only to reward talent but to build resilient businesses that can thrive despite challenges such as market competition and limited resources,” she said.
“The cash prizes provide a launchpad for recipients to scale their operations, build brand recognition, and access new markets.”
In addition to financial rewards, Sebabatso offers mentorship, networking opportunities, and access to resources that equip young entrepreneurs with the skills needed to succeed. Participants have the chance to engage with industry leaders, successful business-people, and investors who can provide valuable insights and partnerships.
It also fosters a vibrant community of like-minded individuals eager to collaborate, learn, and grow together. One of the upcoming entrepreneurs, Boitumelo Sephapho, said the experience gave her a fresh perspective on business. “Sebabatso gave me the tools I needed to adapt and thrive in a fast-changing world. I am definitely joining the third cohort,” she said enthusiastically.
Similarly, Thabo Moliko emphasized the importance of entrepreneurship as a driver of economic growth. “Sebabatso reminds us that business ownership is not only a means of personal success but also a way to make a positive impact on society,” Moliko said, urging young people to see entrepreneurship as a way to uplift their communities.
The Sebabatso initiative aligns with Lesotho’s national agenda of youth empowerment and economic diversification. In a country where youth unemployment remains a significant challenge, initiatives like Sebabatso play a crucial role in promoting entrepreneurship as a viable career path.
By reducing the barriers young entrepreneurs face, such as access to capital and mentorship, the program helps participants build sustainable enterprises that create employment, promote local innovation, and contribute to socio-economic development.
As the winners implement their business strategies, Sebabatso continues to inspire future generations of entrepreneurs. The platform reaffirms its commitment to creating a thriving ecosystem for youth entrepreneurship and small businesses in Lesotho. With each passing year, Sebabatso strengthens its role as a catalyst for innovation, growth, and community development.
The awards are more than just a celebration of success, they are a reminder of the power of entrepreneurship to transform lives and create opportunities. As the second cohort of Sebabatso participants begins their new journeys, the program’s impact will undoubtedly ripple through Lesotho’s economy, fostering a culture of innovation and resilience for years to come.