—As curtain falls on the esteemed accountant, public servant and politician
Bongiwe Zihlangu
ON Sunday, April 27, 2023, Lesotho awoke to the heartbreaking news of the passing of distinguished accountant and politician, Moahloli Mphaka, who succumbed to an asthma attack just hours after celebrating his 49th birthday with family and friends.
His sudden demise has sent ripples of shock and sorrow across the nation, leaving behind a legacy marked by integrity, dedication, and an unwavering commitment to public service.
Born Moahloli Joachim Mphaka in 1976 in Pulane, Ha Nkhahle, Berea district, he was the youngest of eight children of Abram Mofella Mphaka and Malekhooa Anastacia Mphaka.
Mr Mphaka’s tertiary academic journey began at the Lesotho Institute of Business Studies, where he earned a Diploma in Accounting in 1998. He furthered his education across the globe, achieving a bachelor’s degree in accounting from York College, City University of New York, in 2005.
His quest for excellence continued as he enrolled with the Centre for Accounting Studies (CAS) to become a Chartered Accountant in 2006 and later a Fellow of the Association of Certified Chartered Accountants (ACCA) in 2012, reflecting his deep commitment to the accounting profession.
Mr Mphaka’s professional journey is a testament to his dedication to both the private and public sectors. He held significant positions, including serving as the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Lesotho Institute of Accountants and as Principal Secretary (PS) in the Ministry of Trade, Industry, and Business Development. Notably, he held the esteemed role of Government Secretary (GS) twice in 2014-2015 and 2017-2020, contributing significantly to the country’s governance under former Prime Minister Tom Thabane.
He has also served as a Government Advisor for the Lesotho Highlands Water Project (LHWP).
At the time of his passing, he was a Managing Partner at MATS Chartered Accountants and Tax Consultants, solidifying his status as a respected figure in the accounting landscape of Lesotho.
In a heartfelt tribute yesterday, Mr Mphaka’s eldest brother, Sam, shared the profound impact his brother had on their family.
“His unexpected demise has left us in disbelief. Knowing that we will never see him again cuts deep. He was not just a brother; he was a unifying force for our family,” Sam reflected.
He described Mr Mphaka as a natural leader, characterized by warmth and insight, and credited him with cultivating a legacy of love and unity that the family would strive to uphold.
Mr Mphaka’s contributions extended beyond family, with his influence felt within the All Basotho Convention (ABC).
The party issued a statement honouring his life, emphasising his dedication to public service and his role in shaping the nation’s administrative landscape.
“He was a true patriot,” the statement read, recognizing his pivotal contributions to the Lesotho Highlands Water Project and the broader economic development of Lesotho.
“It is with profound sorrow that we announce the passing of Mr Moahloli Mphaka, former Government Secretary of the Kingdom of Lesotho under the leadership of former Prime Minister Dr Thomas Thabane. Mr Mphaka departed this life last night, on the day marking his birthday.
“Throughout his distinguished career in public service, Mr Mphaka served with unwavering dedication and integrity, playing a pivotal role in shaping the administrative landscape of our nation. In recent years, he continued to offer his expertise as an esteemed advisor to the Lesotho Highlands Water Project (LHWP), a cornerstone of Lesotho’s infrastructural and economic development.
“The All Basotho Convention (ABC) mourns the loss of a true patriot and extends its deepest condolences to his family, friends, and colleagues during this time of immeasurable grief.”
The Lesotho Institute of Accountants also expressed their condolences, highlighting Mr Mphaka’s instrumental role in building the accounting profession in Lesotho.
“He served with integrity and professionalism, and his legacy will continue to inspire us,” the LIA said.
Remembered for his ethical standards and commitment to excellence, Mr Mphaka’s passing leaves a void that resonates deeply within both his family and the various sectors he touched throughout his career.
“He raised the bar in our family,” Sam noted, “setting a standard that we must all strive to emulate.”
As Lesotho grapples with the loss of this remarkable individual, Mr Mphaka’s legacy of leadership, integrity, and service will undoubtedly echo in the hearts and minds of those who knew him. The nation mourns the passing of a true servant-leader, whose footprints will remain in the sands of time, inspiring future generations to pursue their dreams with tenacity and purpose.
