Vodacom Lesotho Launches Software Factory Hub to Empower Local Tech Startups
Vodacom Lesotho’s Software Factory Hub, a four-month incubation programme designed for innovative tech start-ups that are registered in Lesotho, was officially launched on Thursday this week in Maseru. The launch underscores the company’s commitment to fostering and empowering local tech talent in the country.
The primary goal of this programme is to equip emerging tech start-ups, no older than five years, with essential expertise in the fields of cyber security, software development and agile methodologies. This will in turn enhance their technical capabilities and foster innovation in key areas that are critical to their growth and success in today’s fast-paced digital landscape.
This idea was hatched after realising that a substantial proportion of tech solutions were predominantly sourced from companies in South Africa and further afield. This underscored a prominent gap in the domestic tech landscape, particularly evident in the deficiency of local entities in meeting stringent compliance, governance and other technical requirements. This shortfall was particularly conspicuous during Vodacom Lesotho’s quest for a capable local tech partner when we were developing the Vodacom Lesotho App.” Sekoala emphasised the critical need for nurturing a robust local tech ecosystem capable of addressing intricate challenges and enhancing the quality of life of Basotho.
Sekoala Tšukulu, Executive Head, Information Technology and Billing, Vodacom Lesotho
Peiso Moiloa, a representative of Peiso Media Group, a participant in the programme, expressed sentiments about the opportune timing of this initiative. He elaborated on how the programme’s emphasis on developing high-tech skills will effectively empower entrants to craft and implement innovative solutions tailored to the specific needs of local businesses and the broader community.
On behalf of the Ministry of Information, Communications, Science, Technology and Innovation, Puseletso Thubela thanked Vodacom Lesotho for the initiative, emphasising how crucial it was for government and private entities to collaborate in fostering innovation and technological advancement. Puseletso said many developed countries have propelled their socio-economic growth by investing significantly in research and innovation across various sectors. She highlighted the immense potential held by initiatives like the Software Factory Hub in driving economic progress and overall national development through the integration of cutting-edge technology and innovative solutions into different industries.
Tšepo Ntaopane, the Executive Head of External Affairs and Regulatory, articulated a compelling challenge to the programme entrants. He encouraged them to not only complete the programme but also to embrace the responsibility of incubating young tech graduates to empower them to establish their own tech companies, thereby fostering a culture of homegrown innovation. Ntaopane underscored the urgency for Vodacom Lesotho and other businesses to shift towards utilising local tech companies instead of relying on foreign entities. He said that the key to achieving this shift was by equipping local tech entrepreneurs with the necessary skills and exposure. By doing so, they would be better positioned to meet the demands and standards required by entities like Vodacom Lesotho. He stressed the importance of collaboration between the government and various stakeholders in creating an environment conducive to the growth and success of local tech companies, ensuring that they could lead the way in providing innovative solutions that catered for the unique challenges and opportunities present in the country.
The thorough and meticulous selection process involved detailed assessments covering technical capabilities, governance structures, and compliance standards, culminating in the shortlisting of just five companies from an initial pool of 37 applicants. Following the conclusion of the programme, a significant cash prize will be awarded to one of the participating tech startups, aiding in the facilitation of their expansion and growth initiatives. Moreover, all the technology enterprises partaking in the initiative will enjoy privileged access to Vodacom Lesotho’s extensive technological infrastructure and support mechanisms. Upon successfully completing the programme, these startups will be formally recognized as approved suppliers for Vodacom Lesotho, thereby positioning them to collaborate on a diverse array of technological solutions tailored for both Vodacom Lesotho and various other prominent corporate entities within the country.
