By: Mpho Shelile
MASERU
The Central Bank of Lesotho (CBL) unveiled its highly anticipated 2025 Money Month Campaign, an initiative designed to educate and empower citizens about financial literacy. This year’s theme, “Think Before You Follow, Wise Money Tomorrow,” encourages individuals to adopt critical thinking and informed decision-making in their financial journeys, laying the foundation for a brighter financial future.
The campaign aims to address common financial challenges such as impulse spending, misinformation about investments, and the risks associated with following financial trends without proper understanding. By instilling the importance of careful planning and thoughtful action, CBL hopes to inspire a culture of financial prudence across Lesotho.
This event will provide participants with practical tools and strategies to manage their money wisely. Special attention will be given to promoting financial education from village to village, equipping everyone to make sound financial decisions that will benefit them for years to come.
Speaking at the launch, CBL Governor Dr Maluke Letete emphasised the significance of this year’s theme. “We live in an era where information is abundant but not always accurate. ‘Think Before You Follow, Wise Money Tomorrow’ serves as a reminder for all of us to critically evaluate financial advice and trends before acting. Together, we can build a financially secure nation.”
He then urged attendees to reflect on how they manage their finances, the influences they follow, and the long-term consequences of the decisions they make, “It is a simple but powerful reminder that our financial decisions today will shape our tomorrow. Whether we are saving, spending, or investing, we must stop and think: Is this the right choice for me? Will this bring long-term benefits, or could it lead to financial challenges down the road?”
Dr Letete then addressed these questions, “let me tip you on how you can avoid being part of the statistics of those who fall victim of financial scams, and beware of risks related to three main fintech-related drivers, namely; the increasing reliance of financial services’ firms on technology, the increasing interconnectedness within the financial sector, and the prospect of greater concentration and herd-like behaviour.”
“As we conclude today’s reflections, I urge you to take control of your financial future. Let us remember that thinking before you follow means being- informed, making decisions based on what is best for your long-term well-being and ensuring that you are prepared for the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. The choices you make today how you save, how you spend, how you invest will shape your tomorrow. So, make them wisely.”
In an interview with Informative Newspaper, various attendees shared their thoughts on this year’s theme and their commitments to re-evaluating how they manage their finances. Mrs. Mathabo Moiloa remarked, “We are deeply thankful for the chance to participate in this vital campaign. The lessons and insights we’ve gained today will guide us in making informed financial choices that promise a brighter tomorrow.”
Other attendees expressed similar sentiments, emphasising the significance of the campaign’s theme, “Think Before You Follow, Wise Money Tomorrow.” Tumelo shared, “The theme truly resonates with us. It serves as a powerful reminder that making thoughtful financial decisions paves the way for sustainable success.”
While Moroesi highlighted the common impact of such initiatives, stating, “This campaign exemplifies the strength of collective effort. Together, we can inspire and empower our communities to adopt financial wisdom for a better future.”
“Today underscores that every financial decision we make, no matter how small, shapes our future. It’s a call to think critically and act carefully.”
As the Money Month campaign unfolds, the Central Bank urges all citizens to actively participate and take advantage of the resources on offer. By fostering financial literacy and encouraging responsible money management, CBL continues its commitment to strengthening Lesotho’s economy one informed decision at a time.