From student to entrepreneur, 23-year old Ikaneng Mapuru has opened Lesotho’s first-ever Nala Matcha Bar, introducing a health-focused alternative to the country’s caffeine culture.
Mapuru, a fourth-year Law (LLB) student at the National University of Lesotho (NUL), is also the founder of Lesotho Mental Health Warriors and an event organiser.
She says her latest venture was born from a deep passion for wellness and her own search for healthier ways to cope with the pressures of student life.
“During my studies, I discovered matcha, a vibrant green tea powder from Japan, and was drawn to its incredible benefits.
“It gives sustained energy without the crashes of coffee. Its rich in antioxidants for immunity, and it helps with mental clarity during long lectures,” Mapuru explained
In Lesotho, where coffee and rooibos dominate, matcha remains little known. Recognising this gap, Mapuru decided to introduce it to her community. Six weeks ago, she launched Nala Matcha Bar as a small pop-up, bringing premium ceremonial-grade matcha to students, lecturers, and locals in search of healthier energy alternatives.
“What makes my venture unique is that it is the first of its kind in the country. I want people to experience the calm focus, detoxification, and immune support that come with matcha, all in one drink,” she said.
But pioneering a new product has not been without challenges. Mapuru admits that financial constraints have slowed the pace of her vision.
As a student, she said, capital is limited. She also faces the hurdle of brand awareness because many Basotho don’t know what matcha is.
Despite these obstacles, her ambitions go beyond just selling beverages. She envisions her venture creating jobs for young people, especially as operations expand.
“I want to contribute to reducing unemployment by building a business that hires Basotho youth,” she noted.
Mapuru also insists on maintaining a balance between innovation and local support. For instance, while she imports ceremonial-grade matcha to ensure authenticity, she uses locally produced milk to prepare her drinks, thereby supporting local farmers.
Her approach is steeped in tradition as much as it is in modern wellness trends. She has conducted extensive research to learn the intricacies of matcha preparation, ensuring that customers experience it as authentically as possible.
“Despite the high costs of sourcing premium matcha, I am committed to doing it the right way. This is not just about business; it’s about wellness, balance, and community impact,” she explained.
With Lesotho’s wellness movement slowly taking shape, Nala Matcha Bar stands as a bold first step. For Mapuru, it is not just about offering a drink; it is about introducing a lifestyle that prioritises health, mindfulness, and opportunity.
