By: Mpho Shelile
Maseru – Econet Telecom Lesotho (ETL), through its 12 Days of Christmas Charity Initiative, distributed gifts to orphanage homes. This initiative, a hallmark of ETL’s commitment to community support, aims to bring joy and relief to children in need during the festive season. At its Thetsane premises, ETL donated groceries worth over M65,000.00 to 10 homes that care for orphans and vulnerable children in Lesotho.
In his opening address, ETL CEO Mr. Dennis Plaatjies highlighted the company’s long-standing commitment to social responsibility through its investment arm, the HigherLife Foundation.
He emphasised that, over the past 13 to 14 years, the foundation has been instrumental in transforming the lives of the less fortunate by providing critical services such as scholarships, shelter, food, and home maintenance and renovations. These efforts have positively impacted countless children and families. Mr. Plaatjies also noted that the annual Christmas initiative serves as a further testament to ETL’s unwavering dedication to supporting those in need.
Mr. Plaatjies expressed deep gratitude to ETL employees, acknowledging that the generosity of staff members, who contribute 2% of their salaries to support the charity, has made it possible for the company to continue its impactful work.
“Without the dedication and selflessness of our employees, we would not be able to make such a significant impact on the lives of the less privileged. Their contributions are vital to the success of our initiatives,” said Mr. Plaatjies.
The donation was met with immense gratitude from representatives of the orphanage homes. Mrs. Mamonyane Moleleki, a spokesperson for the homes, offered a heartfelt speech of thanks on behalf of the children.
She emphasised the challenges faced by orphanages, particularly those caring for children living with disabilities. “It takes a village to raise a child,” Mrs. Moleleki said, stressing the importance of community support in raising children with special needs.
She further expressed how difficult it is for her home to care for children with disabilities due to limited resources but expressed her hope that more stakeholders would collaborate to make a positive impact.
Among the distinguished guests was Mahlapane Makakole-Boliba, the Deputy Principal Secretary of the Ministry of Social Development. In her remarks, she praised ETL for its ongoing contribution to the welfare of children in Lesotho, particularly through its 2% employee contribution initiative.
Mrs. Makakole-Boliba noted that the highlight of this year’s charity drive is the inclusion of four homes that care specifically for children with disabilities. She pointed out that these children, who should ideally be cared for by the government, face neglect due to the lack of sufficient government funding and support for their special needs. “Children are the future of our nation, and by investing in their welfare today, we are investing in a better tomorrow,” she said.
The Deputy PS also stressed the significance of ETL’s gifts, particularly the food and school supplies, which ensure that children in these homes will not go to bed or school hungry. “Many children in Lesotho are deprived of the basic necessities required for proper growth and development. This situation is especially concerning given King Letsie III’s role as the African Union’s Nutrition Champion,” she added.
Her remarks highlighted the urgent need for collaboration and commitment from all sectors, including government, businesses, and civil society, to address the pressing issue of hunger and malnutrition in the country.
As part of the initiative, the gifts donated to the orphanages included food parcels, and hygiene products. These contributions are intended to make a tangible difference in the lives of children who might otherwise go without the joys of the holiday season. By supporting orphanages, ETL is not only providing essential resources but also sending a message of hope and solidarity to vulnerable communities across Lesotho.
This year’s 12 Days of Christmas Charity Initiative reflects ETL’s continued dedication to the well-being of Lesotho’s children. Through its various initiatives, the company has consistently proven its commitment to creating a lasting positive impact on society.
ETL through HigherLife Foundation, combined with the generous contributions of its employees, serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of giving back and supporting those in need, especially during the festive season.