Standard Lesotho Bank has reiterated its commitment to closing financing gaps for local entrepreneurs.
The bank made this commitment during the launch of the Hook-Up Dinner (THUD) 2.0 series on Monday this week at Maseru Mall.
The leading financial institution is a key sponsor for the THUD 2.0 series, an initiative organised by the Entrepreneurship Network (TEN). The platform connects entrepreneurs with investors to unlock funding, forge meaningful partnerships and drive sustainable business growth.
The 2026 THUD series will run from April to December this year, with monthly series that bring together founders, funders and key stakeholders committed to strengthening entrepreneurship and advancing Small and Medium Enterprises’ development across the country.
This year’s THUD serves as a high-level platform for Basotho entrepreneurs to engage directly with Irish business leaders, with discussions centred on economic transformation and unlocking foreign direct investment for Lesotho.
Delivering the keynote address during the launch, Head of Enterprise Banking at Standard Lesotho Bank, Malatola Phothane, highlighted the resilience required to build and sustain businesses.
“They wake up, they act, they fail, they reiterate, they innovate, and they go back. And that is what makes you who you are,” he said.
Phothane noted that Standard Lesotho Bank’s role goes beyond rhetoric, with a clear focus on bridging the gap between ambition and access to funding.
We are grateful to be part of this journey. Our role is to ensure that we bridge the financing gaps between you and your aspirations, he added.
The launch also marked key strategic developments, including the unveiling of the Lesotho Diaspora Engagement Road Map and an exploration of the economic relationship between Lesotho and Ireland.
A panel of Irish experts shared insights on attracting investment, followed by structured networking sessions linking Basotho businesses with international partners.
Standard Lesotho Bank said its participation in THUD 2.0 signals the start of a sustained effort to create platforms that offer both visibility and practical financial support to the private sector.
By facilitating international partnerships, the bank continues to position itself as a driver of sustainable economic growth in Lesotho.
