Samuel Matekane Prime Minister of Lesotho from 28 October 2022 Date of Birth: 15.03.1958 Country: Lesotho

1. Sam Matekane Biography
2. Business Ventures
3. Charitable Contributions
4. Political Career
5. Election Victory
6. Plans for Office

Sam Matekane Biography

Sam Matekane was born on March 15, 1958, in a remote village in Lesotho. He is the seventh of 14 siblings. After completing primary school, he briefly moved to the capital, Maseru, for further education. Following his schooling, he was apprenticed as a mechanic in South Africa, where he worked in the mines before returning to Lesotho at the age of 20.

Business Ventures

Upon his return, Matekane worked as a wool and mohair trader. In 1986, he established the Matekane Group of Companies (MGC), initially focusing on the sale of construction equipment. MGC later diversified into mining, aviation, real estate, and charitable endeavors.

Charitable Contributions

Throughout his business career, Matekane has been actively involved in philanthropy. He has donated uniforms to the police, ambulances, and built a modern school in his hometown. Additionally, he established a community-owned farm using a cost-sharing scheme.

Political Career

In March 2022, Matekane founded the Revolution for Prosperity (RFP) party in preparation for the 2022 Lesotho general election. He positioned himself as an advocate for businesses, promising to bring stability to Lesotho's politics and end corruption.

Election Victory

Matekane's campaign was notable for its unprecedented use of social media. He outspent his rivals and effectively convinced voters that the existing politicians had failed Lesotho. Despite being considered an outsider, RFP won 56 seats in the National Assembly, forming a coalition government with two other parties.

Plans for Office

Upon assuming the premiership in October 2022, Matekane outlined an ambitious 20-point plan to address corruption and the government's budget deficit within his first 100 days in office. He aims to revive Lesotho's economy through austerity measures, job creation, and attracting international investment.