By: Mpho Shelile
Maseru – Established in September 2022 by Molemo Taolane, ‘Maletsunyane Café has quickly become a beloved spot in the community, offering more than just delicious food, it embodies the spirit of giving back and creating opportunities. This past weekend, the café marked a significant milestone by hosting its first-ever Christmas Festive Bash, with live broadcasts from Bokamoso, attracting local residents and visitors alike.
In a recent interview with Informative newspaper, Mr. Taolane shared the story behind the café’s unique name and its personal significance. “I grew up in ‘Maletsunyane, and when I set out to create a business, I wanted to find something that felt like home, a place where people could come together and feel comfortable, no matter where they are from,” he explained. The name ‘Maletsunyane’ was born out of a deep connection to his roots, symbolizing the warmth and hospitality he hopes to extend to everyone who walks through the café’s doors.
What sets ‘Maletsunyane Café apart from others in the area, according to Mr. Taolane, is the variety and quality of food on offer. Specializing in pizza, fast food, and their signature dish, the “’Maletsunyane Feast,” the café has become a go-to destination for anyone looking to enjoy a hearty meal. The “’Maletsunyane Feast” is a crowd favorite, showcasing a blend of local flavors and innovative cooking techniques, ensuring there’s something for everyone.
Looking ahead, ‘Maletsunyane Café is gearing up for an exciting new addition to their offerings this summer, a unique cocktail named the “’Maletsunyane Sunset.” Mr. Taolane shared that this cocktail would be specially designed to celebrate the vibrant, festive atmosphere of the café while offering a refreshing taste that complements their wide array of dishes.
Beyond serving great food and drinks, Mr. Taolane has an even bigger vision for his business. With a deep commitment to giving back to his community, he emphasized his desire to create job opportunities for local villagers. “I want to give back to the villagers of Matukeng by providing jobs so that they can take care of their families. It’s important to me that as the business grows, so does the community,” he said. Currently, ‘Maletsunyane Café is providing work to several locals, and Mr. Taolane is actively looking to expand his team as the café continues to grow.
But the plans don’t stop there. One of Mr. Taolane’s most ambitious projects is developing a tourist attraction on the mountain near Matukeng. Known for its historical significance, the mountain is home to evidence of the San settlers, also known as the Bushman (Baroa) tribe. With this rich heritage in mind, Mr. Taolane hopes to open a zoo at the site, offering visitors a chance to learn about both the local wildlife and the fascinating history of the area.
As part of this vision, he has already secured a tour guide for the site and is actively looking to hire a photographer as soon as the zoo opens. “This project is not just about tourism; it’s about creating more employment and opportunities for local people. We are building something that will bring people together and support our community in a meaningful way,” he said.
He concluded by emphasizing that the Christmas holidays are a special time for family and friends to come together, create lasting memories, and share in the joy of the season. It’s a time to reconnect, relax, and celebrate the warmth of togetherness. With this in mind, he warmly invited everyone to visit Maletsunyane Café, a perfect place to unwind and enjoy the festive spirit. “Whether you’re looking to savor delicious food, sip on holiday drinks, or simply bask in the cozy atmosphere, Maletsunyane Café offers the ideal setting to celebrate the season and ring in the new year with loved ones.”
With a clear focus on sustainability and community development, ‘Maletsunyane Café is proving to be more than just a place to enjoy a meal, it’s a hub for cultural pride, employment, and innovation. As the business grows, so does the promise of a brighter future for the people of Matukeng. With exciting plans on the horizon, Mr. Taolane’s vision is steadily becoming a reality, and ‘Maletsunyane Café’ is becoming a true symbol of progress and community spirit.