Maseru: TECHz – News Desk
In a significant move to deepen financial inclusion, VCL Financial Services, the operator of M-Pesa in Lesotho, has officially launched Tsetela, a new mobile-based investment solution designed to place formal investing within the reach of more Basotho.
Developed in partnership with STANLIB Lesotho, Tsetela (which translates to “to invest”) extends the utility of M-Pesa beyond everyday transactions into everyday wealth-building by allowing customers to invest directly from their mobile wallets.
Historically, formal investment channels in Lesotho have excluded many citizens due to strict bank account requirements and high minimum investment thresholds, which in some cases start at M5,000. Tsetela drastically lowers these barriers. Eligible individual M-Pesa customers can begin investing with a minimum of just M50, while Mokhatlo Group Savings customers can start from M300. The platform is managed entirely via USSD by dialing *200# and navigating through the Savings Account menu.
Customers earn daily interest on their invested funds and can view balances or request withdrawals directly from their mobile devices. For security and regulatory adherence, STANLIB Lesotho is licensed by the Central Bank of Lesotho, ensuring investor funds are strictly segregated from company operations and overseen by an independent trustee. The launch event highlighted the collaborative effort between the private sector and government to foster economic participation.
Mohale Ralebitso, Chief Executive Officer of Vodacom Lesotho, emphasized that financial inclusion enables Basotho to participate more fully in the economy, noting that even a modest investment can build value when placed within a regulated environment. Mohlabinyane Mohapi, Managing Director at STANLIB Lesotho, added that the service maintains a structured risk management framework well suited to short-term investors, risk-averse individuals, and those requiring liquidity. Teboho Shelile, speaking on behalf of Lesotho’s Minister of Finance and Development Planning, commended the initiative as a strong private-sector innovation backed by an enabling government policy.
As customers begin integrating formal investing into their digital wallets, Tsetela is expected to foster a stronger savings culture in Lesotho. By encouraging individuals to start small and remain consistent, the service directly supports long-term economic resilience and expands the role of M-Pesa into a comprehensive financial ecosystem. Before investing, customers are encouraged to read and understand the applicable product terms and conditions.
