Econet’s Happy Surprises ends with a bang

Rethabile Pitso

THE finale of Econet Telecom Lesotho’s (ETL) “Happy Surprises” campaign lived up to its billing on Friday, with subscribers making off with a host of prizes.

The competition’s final leg was held at Sefika Complex in Maseru with 12 of the telecommunications giant’s subscribers going on a trolley-dash competition in Shoprite supermarket, and winning groceries worth M24 610.37.

Added to that, two lucky winners made off with an all-expenses-paid to Semonkong lodge. The two winners and their partners will be ferried to the resort by helicopter, where they will be treated to horse-riding and abseiling among other activities. Other winners took home cash prizes and airtime.

The competition was launched in April, with ETL custom entering by texting the word “happy” to 65000, purchasing data or transacting using the Eco-Cash facility.

ETL Assistant General Manager Marketing, Maphunye Putsoa, said the competition was meant to give back to the telecommunications giant’s customers.

“We exceeded so many targets during these past four months, one of which being to get more people to use our products,” Ms Putsoa said.

“This is in addition to keeping our loyal customers happy with the happy surprises that kept coming their way on a daily basis.

“We made sure to give away free data and free minutes on a daily basis, in addition to the weekly prizes and grand prizes that were won monthly. So it was just surprises after surprises for them.”

She said the competition was not just focused on ETL customers, but also meant to extend a helping hand to disadvantaged and vulnerable communities.

“We visited a number of orphanages and homes for the handicapped and donated blankets to make their winter more comfortable. This was achieved through the ‘Donate a blanket’ competition that we ran alongside the main ‘Happy Surprises’ promotion,” she said.

Ms Putsoa added that ETL customers should be on the look-out for more value-added services and promotions from the telecommunications giant.

“We intend to see many more happy faces and smiles in our journey towards a successful relationship with Basotho. Econet still has a lot to offer and we are committed to doing our best to keep our customers happy,” she said.

One of the winners of the all-expenses-paid trip to Semonkong lodge, Mocheku Maseko Tshabalala from Butha-Buthe, said the excursion would afford him and his wife some “quality time”.

“My wife and I have different schedules that normally keep us from spending quality time together, so I am feeling excited for both of us that we will get to enjoy this time together,” Mr Tshabalala said.

“Whenever I take trips overseas, it is never with her, so this will be the first time for us to travel by air together. I cannot wait to enjoy the extreme sports in Semonkong as well.