FNB Acting CEO Makgau Dibakwane (left) and CBL Governor Retšelisitsoe Matlanyane cut the ribbon to officially open the TY branch yesterday.
Rethabile Pitso
FIRST National Bank (FNB) has pledged to provide financial literacy and development programmes in the community of its newly-opened branch in Teyateyaneng (TY) in Berea district.
This was said by FNB Acting CEO, Makgau Dibakwane, yesterday during the official opening of the branch. He said the branch was FNB’s seventh in the country since 2004 when the bank was established in Lesotho.
“Over the years, we have expanded steadily across the country to offer 21st century banking needs to Basotho,” Mr Dibakwane said.
“We will continue to do so until we are present in all the strategic places nationwide. We have no doubt that we will achieve this as FNB is driven by innovation, convenience and superior service and we continue to position ourselves as a bank of choice amongst Basotho across all our branches, we make it a point that we offer value-added customer service and a TY branch will not be an exception as we will lend it all the necessary support to ensure that it is fully functional and effective.”
He added that the financial institution boasted of “versatile, skilled and dedicated staff who deliver excellent service to both internal and external stakeholders,” who would create sustainable businesses.
“It must also be noted that this new development will bring other benefits such as job opportunities and community development in TY,” said Mr Dibakwane.
“We shall also be focusing on intensive financial literacy so that we build a financially intelligent and responsible society.”
In her remarks, guest of honour Central Bank of Lesotho Governor, Retšelisitsoe Matlanyane, called for more mutually beneficial relationships between Basotho and reputable banks such as FNB.
“FNB has worked hard to provide its services for Basotho to enjoy such as disbursing loans responsibly, which is highly advised lest a borrower fails to repay what they owe,” Dr Matlanyane said.
“Banks need to place value towards communities, and enable them to benefit from loan services that would allow many Basotho and small entrepreneurs to be funded through responsible channels.
“I also wish to urge Basotho to exercise diligence when approaching the banks as it takes care of monies that belong to the people. The community should assume the role of caretakers of this facility which has been established here for the benefit of all.”
On his part, TY District Administrator Ntsala Letsoela said members of the surrounding community were elated with the opening of the branch, which he said would contribute towards developing the area.
“We believe that developments such as these will help us in conquering some of the challenges we face in this area that mostly emanate from poverty, hunger and diseases among others.
“Most people from the Berea District live below the poverty datum line, and end up in other districts seeking employment and other means of making a living.
“We believe FNB will serve these people with honour and respect to the best of its ability and will thus contribute positively to the upliftment of Berea.”
