…after earning international recognition from Ookla
Moroke Sekoboto
TELECOMMUNICATIONS powerhouse, Econet Telecom Lesotho (ETL), has been recognised as having the fastest mobile network in Lesotho by Ookla, the global connectivity intelligence company behind Speedtest.
The recognition, announced this week, is based on independently collected, real-world consumer network performance data for the first half of 2026 (1H 2026), offering an assessment of mobile network experiences across Lesotho.
“We are excited to announce that Econet has the fastest mobile network in Lesotho, validated by Speedtest Verified,” said Patrick Linder, vice-president of Telco Marketing Strategy and Design at Ookla.
“This prestigious recognition highlights their network’s leading performance, and Ookla is proud to affirm this remarkable achievement.”
Based in Seattle, United States, Ookla, the company behind Speedtest, is described as the global leader in fixed broadband and mobile network testing applications, data and analysis.
The recognition comes as Econet undertakes one of its most extensive network modernisation programmes, with the company having nearly tripled its active 5G footprint while continuing to expand and strengthen its 4G network across the country.
The upgrades are intended to improve customers’ everyday digital experience through faster browsing, smoother video streaming, more responsive gaming and digital services, clearer voice calls and broader access to reliable connectivity.
Econet chief executive officer, Dennis Plaatjies, said the recognition reflected years of investment in network infrastructure and the collective efforts of employees across the company.
“Receiving these Speedtest Awards from Ookla is a moment of immense pride for everyone at Econet. These accolades are far more than industry recognition – they are an independent validation of our commitment to continuously investing in a network that delivers exceptional experiences for our customers every day,” Mr Plaatjies said.
He said the recognition also highlighted the growing importance of connectivity to Lesotho’s digital development.
As more aspects of everyday life move online, Mr Plaatjies said reliable connectivity was increasingly enabling businesses to expand, students to access learning opportunities, families to remain connected and entrepreneurs to tap into new markets and services.
The recognition comes amid growing demand for high-speed broadband, digital financial services, artificial intelligence-enabled services and other emerging technologies.
Econet said it would continue expanding and modernising its network to meet changing customer needs while supporting Lesotho’s broader digital transformation.
“While we celebrate this milestone, we see it as motivation to continue investing in our network and delivering even greater value for the people of Lesotho,” Mr Plaatjies said.
