‘Mantšali Phakoana
First National Bank (FNB) Lesotho in collaboration with the Basotho Enterprises Development Corporation (BEDCO) yesterday celebrated Africa Day by giving small local businesses a platform to showcase their products at Tšifalimali in Leribe.
Speaking at the event, FNB head of marketing, ‘Masakoane Hanyane, said the event was meant to promote small businesses to enable them to contribute to the growth of the country’s economy.
Hanyane noted that the event marks 20 years of the bank’s existence as well as 200 years since the founding of the Basotho nation.
“It’s been four years since FNB has been celebrating African Day in different styles. Last year, after realising how small businesses and local artists were struggling, we decided to celebrate this day by giving them a platform to promote their talents and businesses,” Hanyane added.
Trade, industry and business development minister, Mokhethi Shelile, encouraged Basotho to support local small businesses, further recommitting the government’s support to such enterprises.
The director of Creative Designs and Architecture Solutions, Katleho Thatho, thanked FNB for giving them a platform to promote their businesses and learn from others.
“This is one of the opportunities we rarely have as Leribe businesses. Most of the time flea markets are hosted in Maseru. This year we feel lucky that FNB was able to remember us. We will forever be grateful for that,” Thatho said.
