Maseru, June 02 — Sebabatso alumni and past beneficiaries with businesses and entrepreneurial ventures on Monday gathered at American Corner Maseru for a three-day E-Commerce and AI-Powered Marketing training programme aimed at strengthening their digital business skills.
The training brings together former Sebabatso participants to learn how to leverage e-commerce platforms and artificial intelligence (AI) tools to grow their businesses and reach wider markets. Participants were expected to gain practical knowledge on establishing and managing online stores, digital branding, social media marketing, content creation, and customer engagement strategies.
In an interview with the Agency, Ms. Makelebone Thamae, founder of Bohlokoa Products (Pty) Ltd, says the E-Commerce and AI-Powered Marketing training is expected to help local entrepreneurs expand their businesses beyond Lesotho and access international markets.
Ms. Thamae, whose company manufactures reusable sanitary pads, breast pads, nappies and other textile products, said she was motivated to attend the training because it aligns with the growing global market and the increasing role of technology in business.
She said one of the key areas of interest for her is understanding how Artificial Intelligence (AI) can help businesses reach global markets more efficiently.
According to Ms. Thamae, AI has the potential to reduce costs associated with marketing, transportation and labour while making it easier for local products to gain visibility in international markets.
She said she joined the Sebabatso programme in 2024 pointing out that the programme has played an important role in supporting her entrepreneurial journey through both funding opportunities and business development knowledge.
She noted that her business already uses online platforms to market and sell products, with approximately 10 percent of its sales generated through online channels. However, she highlighted challenges such as customers placing orders and failing to complete payments.
Ms. Thamae further said AI could assist entrepreneurs in sourcing raw materials and connecting with suppliers more effectively, which she believes would be beneficial for the growth of her business.
Meanwhile Ms. Nicole Niyonzima, the founder of KinForge Ventures said she joined the Sebabatso Programme in 2025 and has since benefitted from the opportunities it offers to entrepreneurs.
She said this training will enable participants to take part in the global digital market, adding that it is taken to the next level as part of its innovation mission.
She said the initiative aims to equip beneficiaries with the skills and knowledge needed to participate effectively in the programme and explore opportunities in the digital economy.
Through the initiative, Sebabatso aims to strengthen entrepreneurship among its beneficiaries and support the adoption of digital innovation as a toll for business growth, market expansion and job creation.
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