MASERU – 22nd October 2026: It is all systems go for the fourth edition of the highly anticipated Econet Expo 2026, scheduled for the 27th to 30th October at Maseru Mall under the theme “Think AI. Think Econet.”

This year’s Econet Expo comes against the backdrop of Econet Telecom Lesotho’s recent international recognition by Ookla, the global connectivity intelligence company behind Speedtest, as Lesotho’s Fastest Mobile Network for the first half of 2026. The recognition marks a significant milestone in Econet’s continued investment in network infrastructure, digital innovation and enhanced customer experiences.

Building on this achievement, the Econet Expo promises four days of immersive technology experiences, bringing together global technology brands, businesses, innovators, students and the general public to explore the possibilities of an increasingly digital world.

Among the major highlights will be the official launch of Apple’s iPhone 18, alongside technology showcases from global partners and local partners. Visitors can also experience robotics, virtual reality, gaming, smart home solutions, artificial intelligence applications and quality pre-loved devices, with exciting giveaways up for grabs.

Speaking ahead of the event, ETL’s acting GM – Marketing Communications and Customer Experience Mrs. Puleng Masoabi said the Econet Expo reflects the company’s deliberate ambition to lead Lesotho into an AI-powered future, supported by world-class connectivity.

“Our recent recognition by Ookla as Lesotho’s Fastest Mobile Network is a testament to our continued investment in building the digital infrastructure that our country needs. However, connectivity is only part of the equation. ETL’s ambition is to go beyond providing a fast and reliable network to enabling Basotho to meaningfully participate in the digital economy. We have made a deliberate decision to be at the forefront of artificial intelligence adoption in Lesotho, ensuring that these technologies are not merely global trends we observe, but practical solutions that our people can access and benefit from,” said  Mrs Mosoabi.

She highlighted EcoAI, Econet’s artificial intelligence platform, as a demonstration of the company’s commitment to democratising access to emerging technologies. Supporting both English and Sesotho, EcoAI offers affordable access to AI-powered tools, with convenient payments through airtime and EcoCash.

“Through EcoAI, ETL is taking practical steps to remove barriers to artificial intelligence, particularly affordability, language and accessibility. We want a student in Mokhotlong, an entrepreneur in Mafeteng or a business owner in Maseru to have the opportunity to harness AI to learn, innovate and become more productive. This is the future we are deliberately working towards, where technology creates opportunities for everyone, regardless of their background or location,” Mrs Masoabi explained.

Beyond the exhibitions, the Econet Expo will feature thought-leadership discussions exploring the practical application of AI in Lesotho, financial technology (FinTech), digital transformation and the opportunities technology presents for addressing socioeconomic challenges, including youth unemployment and digital skills development.

Mrs Masoabi further encouraged schools, entrepreneurs, businesses and the general public to attend, emphasising that the Econet Expo is designed to inspire greater participation in the digital economy. “We want young Basotho to see themselves as future innovators and creators of technology, while enabling businesses to discover solutions that enhance efficiency and competitiveness. The Econet Expo is about bringing those possibilities to life and demonstrating that the future of technology is already within our reach,” she concluded