Econet Telecom Lesotho officially launched the fourth edition of the Econet Expo at a media briefing held at Maseru Mall on Tuesday, 27 October 2026. Under the theme “Think AI. Think Econet.”, this year’s Expo explores how connectivity, artificial intelligence and digital financial services can support everyday life and help businesses grow across the Mountain Kingdom.

Running until Friday, 30 October, the Expo brings together Econet and its partners, giving visitors an opportunity to experience digital solutions, ask questions and discover services relevant to their needs.

Speaking at the launch, Econet Telecom Lesotho Chief Executive Officer, Mr Dennis Plaatjies, said the event reflects the company’s ambition to make technology more accessible and useful across the country.

“We want everyone across Lesotho to experience how technology can help them work more effectively, grow their businesses, access services and develop new skills,” he said.

Mr Plaatjies highlighted Econet’s continued investment in network modernisation, including the rollout of 5G across Lesotho’s major towns and the ongoing expansion of its fibre network. These investments support growing demand for reliable connectivity in homes, businesses and institutions, while laying the foundation for emerging technologies.

He also highlighted Ookla’s recognition of Econet as Lesotho’s Fastest Mobile Network, based on Speedtest Intelligence® data for the first half of 2026, while reaffirming the company’s commitment to continually improving the customer experience.

Drawing on expertise across the wider Econet Group, Mr Plaatjies invited government, businesses and institutions to explore partnerships that could support AI adoption in agriculture, healthcare, education and business. He emphasised that practical applications must be developed alongside the people who understand each sector’s needs, with responsible use and human accountability remaining central.

Bringing the discussion closer to customers, Mr Lebohang Ramaisa, GM – Sales and Services, encouraged visitors to explore how the technology on display could address their own challenges.

“Our theme, ‘Think AI. Think Econet.’, starts with practical questions. What task do you need help with? What takes up too much time? What would you like to understand better?” he said.

Through EcoAI, visitors can explore assistance with drafting, research, summarising information and developing ideas. Econet’s teams are available to explain these uses, including the importance of checking information and applying personal judgement.

Mr Ramaisa also encouraged visitors to discuss their connectivity needs with the teams on site and extended a special invitation to schools, giving learners an opportunity to connect classroom learning with technology, digital skills and possible career paths.

Financial inclusion was another key focus of the briefing. Mr Moeketsi Mafereka, GM – Sasai Econet Financial Services (SEFS), outlined how EcoCash and EcoSure respond to everyday payment and financial protection needs.

“Our ambition is to make financial services easier to access and understand, so that more people and businesses can use them with confidence,” he said.

Visitors can engage with the SEFS team about EcoCash money transfers, bill payments, merchant payments, bulk and payroll payment services, as well as EcoSure cover, benefits, conditions and claims processes.

Mr Mafereka emphasised clear information, responsible handling of personal data and customer awareness as essential to building trust. These themes will be explored further in Friday’s “Money, Trust and Machines” discussion.

Econet Expo 2026 is open daily from 10:00 to 18:00 at Maseru Mall until Friday, 30 October. Individuals, families, businesses and schools are invited to explore, engage and discover what technology can make possible.