By: Lebohang Maluke
MASERU
Econet Telecom Lesotho (ETL), and Sam Matekane Foundation (SMF), have come together to sponsor the highly anticipated People’s Cup, investing a remarkable M1.5 million into this exciting event. This partnership aims to provide an inclusive platform for local football talent to showcase their skills and bring the community together.
The voting process for the People’s Cup began on February 19 and will run until March 1 and 3rd, with votes being cast through Bulk Voting and SMS voting. Each SMS cost M1.00 with the limitation of 100 votes while bulk voting, a person can vote without limitation. Mr. Seeiso Molapo from ETL mentions the importance of inclusion, ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to participate in the selection process. The voting allows the public to have a say in which teams will compete in the top 8, making the tournament more engaging for the community.
The tournament will see 8 teams from across Lesotho play against each other in thrilling matches set to take place in Maputsoe and Mohale’s Hoek. The stakes are high, as the price pool promises substantial rewards for the top-performing teams. The winning team will walk away with a grand price of M500,000, while the second-place team will receive M200,000. Teams finishing in third and fourth places will each take home M100,000. The last four teams will also be rewarded, sharing a total of M160,000.
On March 15, semi and finals will be held in Mantšonyane with the sponsorship of M15,000.00 each team which caters for transport and accommodation.
Mr. Baba Malephane from SMF, reveals that the sponsorship of M1.5 million reflects a shared commitment to investing in local football and nurturing talent within Lesotho. The competition not only promises to provide entertainment for football fans but also offers an opportunity for players to elevate their careers and gain recognition on a national level.
With such a generous investment, the People’s Cup is set to become one of the most exciting football tournaments in Lesotho, creating a platform for local teams to compete, connect, and thrive. It is a step forward in fostering talent and building stronger communities through sports.
The collaboration between Econet Telecom Lesotho, and Sam Matekane Foundation, and underscores the power of partnerships in driving positive change and supporting youth development in Lesotho. The People’s Cup is a testament to their dedication to empowering the next generation of football stars in the country.
Minister of Sports, Tourism, Arts and Culture, Hon. Motlatsi Maqelepo highlights the importance of sponsoring sports. Entrepreneurs need to invest more into sports as part of job creation.