Letsatsi Selikoe
FRIED chicken specialists, KFC Lesotho, held a cooking contest for its cooks to motivate them to keep producing the “finger linkin’ good” chicken.
This year’s national cookout competition was held at KFC Maseru Mall this past week whereby 10 cooks from different KFC branches across the country battled for the M5000 grand prize and the opportunity to represent Lesotho in the restaurant chain’s regional competitions to be held in Johannesburg, South Africa, later on this year.
The event saw Lisema Leuna from KFC Maseru Mall crowned the overall winner, also securing a spot to represent Lesotho in Johannesburg.
Paballo ‘Neko of KFC NRH Mall came in second, followed by Tlali Moseme from KFC Pioneer Mall and Joalane Nthako from KFC Maputsoe on third and fourth positions respectively.
They received M4000, M3000 and M2000 respectively.
A surprise award was given to Mabokang Matoba from Maputsoe for being the best seller. She pocketed M5000.
According to Makhaola Nkoebe, Operations Manager at KFC Lesotho, the event was a way to show appreciation to the company’s hardworking employees.
“It’s through our cooks that our business flourishes,” Nkoebe emphasized. “When we talk about sales, we talk mostly about chicken, and these are the people who have been giving excellent work.”
The event was not only about celebrating cooking skills but also about recognizing the impact employees have on families through their salaries, Mr Nkoebe said.
“It’s not just about cooking chicken; it’s about feeding families. It is a testament of KFC Lesotho’s commitment to recognizing and rewarding its employees’ hard work and dedication.
“By celebrating its people, the company demonstrates its appreciation for their contributions to its success and provides motivation for continued excellence.
“As KFC Lesotho looks forward to sending its representative to Johannesburg, they hope that the company’s focus on employee appreciation will continue to drive its growth and success and the celebration of its 12 ingredients – including its people – will undoubtedly inspire even greater achievements in the years to come.”
For his part, KFC General Manager, Trymore Machimo, emphasised the importance of employees in driving business success.
“You can have all the best spices in the world, but the best spice is your people. If you don’t have a motivated workforce, you will never have good chicken.”
Mr Machimo praised the winners, stating that their dedication to providing excellent service was what made KFC Lesotho the successful business it is today.
Lesotho had won last year’s regional contest, represented by Mr Moseme. Mr Leuna vowed to retain the amulet and bring the trophy home.
He emphasised the importance of knowing one’s product and focusing on excellent customer service.