Vodacom Lesotho officially launched its Software Factory Hub, a four-month incubation program for local tech start-ups, in Maseru. The initiative aims to empower Lesotho’s tech talent by equipping start-ups, under five years old, with skills in cybersecurity, software development, and agile methodologies, fostering innovation in a rapidly evolving digital landscape.
The program was born from Vodacom's need for local partners while developing the Vodacom Lesotho App, highlighting the gap in domestic tech solutions, often sourced from South Africa or beyond. Sekoala Tšukulu, Vodacom Lesotho's Executive Head of IT and Billing, emphasized the importance of building a strong local tech ecosystem to tackle complex challenges and improve the lives of Basotho.
Peiso Moiloa, from Peiso Media Group, praised the program’s focus on high-tech skills, noting its potential to help participants create solutions tailored to local businesses and communities. Government representative Puseletso Thubela commended Vodacom's efforts, stressing the need for public-private collaboration to drive innovation and economic progress.
Tšepo Ntaopane, Executive Head of External Affairs, challenged participants to incubate young tech graduates and foster homegrown innovation, reducing reliance on foreign companies. The initiative offers start-ups access to Vodacom's technological infrastructure and the opportunity to become approved suppliers for Vodacom Lesotho, positioning them for future growth.
Out of 37 applicants, five companies were selected to participate, with the top start-up receiving a significant cash prize at the program's conclusion.
