construction – rise International

From Toilets to Testimonies: Your Support is Changing Lives

July 3, 2025By Chris Theko0 comment

PROGRESS THROUGH PARTNERSHIP:

We are proud to share the progress of the ongoing construction of new school toilet blocks at Leqele and Makoanyane Primary Schools, in Maseru as part of the 5 Hub Schools Project. This essential infrastructure was made possible through a generous donation by Action Ireland Trust and its partners. The contractors on the ground working on the project are two of rise Pioneers XYZ Collaborative and PRO Construction, driving community transformation. These safe, clean sanitation facilities are expected to significantly improve the learning environment for hundreds of students, especially young girls.

VOICES OF IMPACT:

Pioneer Incubation Program beneficiary Seabata Motanya’s Journey

In our latest testimonial video, rise Pioneer Seabata Motanya of XYZ Collaborative shares how the in loco and Pioneer Incubation Program has transformed his life and career. His inspiring journey reflects the true spirit of rise: building people, not just projects.

Through generous donations to rise International, Seabata received vital mentorship, training, workspace, access to the internet, and tools to grow his construction business which continues to employ other job seeking young people.

rise IN KENYA: EMPLOYABILITY PROGRAM

June marked a major milestone in our expansion across Africa with the largest cohort to date of our Employability Program in Kenya (East Africa). A vibrant group of 14 participants (12 young women and 2 young men) from Jacaranda and Watamu joined the program to gain practical skills and hands-on experience through rise’s “learning-by-doing” model.

The Employability Program equips youth with CV writing skills, time management skills, interview skills, and getting ready for the workplace. All this before they begin internships across Watamu and Jacaranda for 1 – 3 months.

DESIGNING THE FUTURE:

UCL Students Present Affordable Housing Solutions

Architecture students from University College London (UCL) recently delivered their second presentation of sustainable affordable housing designs tailored to the contexts of Maseru (urban) and Mokhotlong (rural).In collaboration with rise, the students explored innovative approaches that incorporate local materials, eco-friendly technologies, and community-centric designs to tackle Lesotho’s housing challenges. This designs will help in the way we approach sustainable construction going forward in our efforts of community projects.

Thank you for being part of our journey!
Whether you’re a donor, partner, pioneer, or supporter, YOU make these stories of hope, growth, and transformation possible.

Case Studies

Restoring Dignity and Opportunity at Phelisanong Children’s Centre

June 12, 2025By Chris Theko0 comment

Implemented by: rise International | Funded by Sentebale Project

🏡 Background: A Community Rooted in Resilience

Phelisanong Children’s Centre, located in the remote mountains of Pitseng, Northern Lesotho, Southern Africa, was founded in 2001 by a group of villagers living with disabilities and HIV/AIDS. Their vision was bold: to create a safe, inclusive space for orphans, children with disabilities, and those affected by chronic illness. Today, the centre provides care and support to over 200 vulnerable children with disabilities and their families.

Despite its inspiring mission, the centre faced critical infrastructure challenges. Meals for hundreds of children residing at the centre and learners at the school on site, were prepared outdoors, every day, rain, snow, or shine! Caregivers woke at 4 a.m. to collect firewood and cook under harsh conditions, placing immense strain on already overburdened staff. Moreover, the centre’s main water supply was cut off, forcing children to bathe in basins and rendering bathroom facilities unusable.

The situation compromised not only operational efficiency but also the hygiene, dignity, and well-being of the children.

Cooking station: Before

🛠️ The Solution: Dignity Through Design

In 2019, an NGO called Sentebale commissioned rise International, to undertake a comprehensive infrastructure upgrade tailored to Phelisanong’s needs.

Newly upgraded kitchen featuring modern finishes and enhanced functionality

Reliable water supply: The foundation of community well-being

New upgraded bathroom

🧳 Methodology: Community at the Centre

From the beginning, the project followed a participatory approach. rise conducted a detailed baseline assessment in consultation with community members and caregivers. Local voices informed every step—from design to construction to operations — ensuring the intervention was relevant, community-owned, and resilient.

Following the Participatory Design process, the scope of the project was decided upon and it entailed:

Designing and constructing a fully equipped, weatherproof kitchen, including a bakery to sell bread to the local community, which would generate income for the centre.
Installing a new water supply system so the centre had running water once again in all its bathrooms, kitchen, and school.
Renovating old plumbing, pipes, and fixtures in the bathrooms and restoring bathroom functionality.
Introducing a community-driven social enterprise through a conference hall and bakery catering service.

These solutions addressed both immediate and systemic needs, creating long-term value through increased safety, improved health outcomes, and sustainable income generation.

Participatory design process by community members

🌟 Impact Highlights

✅ Job Creation and Local Empowerment

Over 26 jobs were created, 10 being permanent and 16 temporary jobs, increasing staff capacity in childcare and catering functions.
Staff reported improved ability to support their families and contribute to local economic activity.

“I used to cook for 200 children outside. Now, even in the rain, I can prepare meals in a safe kitchen.”
— Mamello Mokholokoe, Director

🍽️ Social Enterprise and Financial Sustainability

The Conference Hall Catering Business has hosted 18+ events over 3 years.
Generated M15,000+/$800 in revenue, which has been reinvested into the child nutrition program.
Supports daily meals for over 200 children.

“The money we raise from catering pays for food for the children. It’s not just a business; it’s a lifeline.”
— Mathekiso Tsoke, Kitchen Manager

🪑 Improved Health, Hygiene, and Dignity

Bathrooms are now fully functional, restoring privacy and sanitation.
Children with disabilities can use facilities independently, improving self-esteem and reducing reliance on caregivers.

“Children now use the bathrooms without needing help. It gives them dignity.”
— Mats’oanelo Monaheng

📈 Infrastructure Resilience

The kitchen was rated 100% structurally sound.
Minor issues with ceiling repairs and water tank blockages were addressed through local maintenance.
Infrastructure remains in good condition and fit for purpose.

🌐 Before vs. After Snapshot

Before Intervention	After Intervention
Meals prepared outside in harsh and unhygienic conditions	Safe, indoor hygienic kitchen used daily
3 staff members	Over 26 jobs created
No income generation	M15,000+ raised via catering
Inaccessible sanitation	Inclusive bathrooms have been fully restored

🧡 A Human Story: Meet Mpho

Mpho, aged 11, has a mobility impairment. Before the project, she had to wait for help every time she needed to use the bathroom. Today, thanks to the accessible facilities, she moves independently. Her joy and confidence reflect the dignity and freedom now restored to many at Phelisanong.

🚀 What’s Next?

Expand the catering enterprise to increase income and train more local staff.
Strengthen preventive maintenance for kitchen and water systems.
Replicate the model in other vulnerable communities across Lesotho

News

Stories of Impact in Africa with AIT

May 7, 2025By Chris Theko1 Comment

rise International was privileged to host 90 dedicated volunteers from Action Ireland Trust (AIT), including high school students, parents, architects, and AIT management. This dynamic collaboration exemplifies the power of international cooperation in achieving meaningful change.

The AIT volunteers brought incredible energy and enthusiasm to the 5Hub Schools project, enriching the community with vibrant cultural exchange.

Transforming Education Infrastructure: The Makoanyane Primary School Project

Together with AIT, we’re revolutionizing early childhood education at Makoanyane Primary School in Maseru. Two shipping containers, generously donated from Ireland, are being transformed into a state-of-the-art creche facility. This nurturing space will provide a safe, stimulating environment for early childhood development and skills-building, addressing a critical need in the community.

Project Highlights:

Impact: This project will provide a strong foundation for young learners, fostering their growth and development.

Innovative Design: The creches interior and exterior are being meticulously crafted to create a child-friendly, vibrant, and educational space.

Local Ownership: We are proud of rise International’s pioneers and staff, who took over ensuring the project’s successful completion and long-term sustainability.

AIT’s Generous Donation: Strengthening Healthcare in Lesotho

rise International facilitated the donation of essential medical equipment by AIT to two local organizations: Starlight Oasis of Hope Hospice and Intellectual Disability and Autism Lesotho (IDAL). This generous contribution included wheelchairs, hospital beds, crutches, and zimmer frames, significantly enhancing the capacity of these organizations to provide vital care to vulnerable populations.

Collaborations and Partnership

Cultivating Lesotho’s Future Leaders

rise International is committed to empowering the next generation of changemakers. Our recent Collaborative Online International Learning (COIL) program (26 February – 1 April 2025) connected students from:

National University of Lesotho (NUL)
Lerotholi Polytechnic (LP) (Lesotho)
Nottingham Trent University (NTU) (United Kingdom)

This cross-cultural initiative addressed the critical theme of “Analyzing Building Materials in Lesotho for Affordable Housing.” Students explored sustainable housing solutions, with a focus on:

Environmental Sustainability: NTU students evaluated the ecological footprint of local materials, promoting environmental responsibility.

Economic Analysis: NUL students conducted cost analyses of various building materials, emphasizing affordability for low-income households.

Social Impact: LP students assessed the social impact of different construction materials, considering community acceptance, safety, and cultural relevance.

Lecture Series

The rise of Sustainable Sports Infrastructure

March 13, 2025By Chris Theko0 comment

News

Building Sustainably: rise Empowers Local Masons with ICEB Training

March 12, 2025By Chris Theko0 comment

As part of the ongoing “Build Smart, Build Local” initiative, rise International recently hosted a capacity-building workshop at Durahm Link, Maseru, aimed at equipping local masons with sustainable construction methodologies. The workshop provided hands-on training in various brick production techniques, including conventional concrete, fire burning, and extracted rock approaches. However, the primary focus was on Interlocking Compressed Earth Blocks (ICEB), an eco-friendly, cost-effective, and durable construction innovation gaining traction in the industry.

Enhancing Business Acumen in Construction

Opening the workshop, Business Trainer ‘Maneo Seekane engaged attendees in an interactive discussion on the fundamental principles of running a construction business. She emphasized key areas such as cost and price determination, necessary equipment, and production capabilities that businesses can benchmark. This session encouraged knowledge-sharing, with masons exchanging insights on their current practices, challenges, and innovative solutions.

Proprietor Kefuoe Lefera described the workshop as invaluable, stating, “These sessions are essential for sharing experiences among local entrepreneurs, building confidence in business, and fostering networking opportunities.” She highlighted ICEB’s affordability, noting that “one does not need significant capital to start production.”

Technical Insights into ICEB Production

Rise’s Construction and Projects Manager, Thato Nkikana, led the theoretical component of the workshop, detailing the composition and production of ICEBs. She stressed the importance of selecting the right materials—particularly ensuring a proper ratio of rough sand, subsoil, and mineral content. “We need at least 50% sand and 30% to 40% clay to achieve the ideal composition,” Nkikana explained, adding that sand testing can be conducted using simple household tools.

For ‘Masefabatho Sula, a representative from the Ministry of Gender Equality, Youth, and Social Development, this was her second time attending a rise ICEB workshop. She noted its instrumental role in introducing different brick-making methods. “This machinery is evidently more user-friendly and cost-effective. These workshops are crucial for knowledge-sharing and business growth,” she remarked.

Hands-On Demonstration and Practical Training

The workshop transitioned into a live demonstration led by rise International’s Construction Supervisor, Ramarou Tsoho, and Construction Coordinator, Tumelo Sethunsa. Both experts guided participants through the mixing process and operational techniques of ICEB machinery. Tsoho demonstrated how to produce full and half blocks, emphasizing the importance of adhering to a guidebook for beginners while allowing for micro-adjustments as experience grows. “Following the correct process ensures consistency and quality in production,” he advised.

Attendees were given the opportunity to operate the machinery, providing them with firsthand experience. Local businessman Makhetha Khoabane acknowledged the significance of ICEB technology in expanding his brick-making business. Similarly, Phoofolo Khoabane expressed enthusiasm about acquiring ICEB machinery, citing its lower production costs compared to conventional methods. “Owning this equipment would allow me to scale my enterprise efficiently,” he stated.

Rise International’s Commitment to Sustainable Development

Rise International continues to champion sustainable development through its various projects aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Notable initiatives include the Stadium of Life and the 5 Hub Schools project, both of which incorporate eco-friendly materials such as timber, sandbags, and ICEBs. One of the organization’s significant achievements is the construction of the Motimposo Primary School Kitchen Pavilion using ICEBs—a fully operational facility that has greatly improved meal preparation for students.

Through initiatives like the ICEB workshop, rise International remains dedicated to fostering entrepreneurship, promoting innovative building technologies, and empowering local communities in Lesotho. As the adoption of sustainable construction practices grows, such training programs are essential in driving economic and social development across the region.

News

January 2025 Highlights

February 13, 2025By Chris Theko0 comment

We hope that 2025 has started well for you. As we step into the 2nd month of 2025, we are filled with optimism and enthusiasm for the journey ahead. We are delighted to share updates on our ongoing projects and the incredible progress being made thanks to your continued support.

Progress in Mokhotlong with SolidarMed Lesotho

Our partnership with SolidarMed Lesotho is off to a strong start. The design phase of the new youth center and health and community facility in the highlands of Mokhotlong District is underway and is expected to be completed by Mid March. This innovative shipping container conversion into a youth centre which is being executed by our 2019 Pioneer, Bokang Tjakotja who founded BEEK Projects, is a testament to the power of sustainable design and our pioneers’ dedication to creating meaningful solutions for underserved communities. We look forward to sharing more updates as this transformative project progresses.

Empowering Pioneers Through Collaboration

January marked another milestone for our Pioneer Business Incubation Program. We continue to guide and equip our Pioneers with collaborative skills through clusters designed to enhance collaboration and skill-building dynamic workshops focused on project management, equipping our pioneers with essential tools to lead impactful initiatives. The Mokhotlong project continues to showcase the strength of this program by providing social enterprise opportunities for our Pioneers to thrive.

We also see other Pioneers benefiting from the clusters with a recent infrastructure project where our 2019 Pioneer Seabata Motanya who founded XYZ Collaborative and Peter Makhetha who founded PRO Construction were working side by side paving sidewalks in Lesotho’s capital city, Maseru.

Upcoming Initiatives for 2025

rise will be coordinating a collaborative research project between Nottingham Trent University (NTU), Lerotholi Polytechnic (LP), and the National University of Lesotho (NUL). The project focuses on analyzing building materials for affordable housing, with NUL Economics students assessing costs, LP Architecture students examining social impact, and NTU students evaluating environmental sustainability.

Six interdisciplinary student groups will conduct a comparative assessment of locally available materials, culminating in a final online presentation of their findings. This initiative fosters international collaboration and aims to inform sustainable and cost-effective housing solutions in Lesotho.

This year, we are excited to expand our efforts in promoting sustainable building practices and entrepreneurship. Key initiatives include:

Continued research and advocacy for hempcrete construction in Lesotho, with a focus on affordable and eco-friendly housing solutions.
Completion of the Stadium of Life project, with the next phase set to focus on the conclusion of Biodiversity Stand.

How can we ensure that every young person, regardless of background, has an equal chance to succeed? Whether it’s through mentorship, referrals, or simply spreading the word about the work we do with our in loco fellowship and Pioneer Business Incubation Program — every action counts.

We are incredibly grateful for your support, and we have no doubt that together, we can make an even greater impact this year. Let’s keep pushing forward. Let’s keep believing in the power of entrepreneurship, innovation and collaboration. Let’s make 2025 a year of action, hope, and change.

Thank You for Your Support

News

Empowering Communities Through Innovation: rise International partners with SolidarMed Lesotho’s Youth Center Project

February 11, 2025By Chris Theko0 comment

rise International is proud to announce an impactful new partnership with SolidarMed Lesotho, marking the beginning of a transformative project in Mokhotlong District. The initiative focuses on the design and construction of a youth center and health and community facility in the highlands, aimed at providing much-needed support and opportunities for young people in the region.

The project, currently in its construction phase, is expected to be completed by early-March 2025. It is a remarkable example of sustainable architecture, as it involves the innovative conversion of shipping containers into a fully functional and dynamic youth center. This approach not only reduces construction costs and environmental impact but also ensures durability and adaptability to the community’s needs.

At the heart of this initiative is Bokang Tjakotja, a graduate of rise International’s in loco fellowship program and a 2019 Pioneer. Bokang, through his company BEEK Projects, is leading the execution of this project, showcasing the strength of rise International’s incubation program in empowering young professionals to drive social change. His work highlights the potential of sustainable construction methodologies to create lasting solutions for underserved communities.

The youth center and health and community facility will serve as a safe and engaging space for young people, offering various programs and resources to support their personal and professional growth. It will also provide essential health services and act as a hub for community-driven initiatives.

This collaboration between rise International and SolidarMed Lesotho is a testament to the power of partnerships in addressing social challenges through innovative and sustainable solutions. As the project progresses, we look forward to sharing more updates and witnessing the positive impact it will have on the Mokhotlong community.

News

Closing off an impactful year!

December 19, 2024By Chris Theko0 comment

This year, rise International has made significant strides across our three core pillars: Entrepreneurship Ecosystem Development, Promoting Social Enterprise, and Innovative Building Methodologies.

Let’s take a moment to celebrate the highlights from Q2&Q3 and share our vision for the future.

Read Quarterly report here

Enhancing School Infrastructure Through the 5 Hub Schools Program

Thanks to the support of Action Ireland Trust and in collaboration with the Ministry of Education and Training, we completed several impactful projects, including the construction of new flushing toilet blocks for Lithabaneng Primary School. We also distributed 39 pressure cookers to five schools, streamlining their daily operations and improving overall efficiency.

Sod turning Events at Makoanyane and Leqele Primary Schools
We recently marked the beginning of two exciting new projects at Makoanyane and Leqele Primary Schools where new ablution blocks will be built for the 1500 learners who currently have to use very unhygienic and inadequate pit latrines with no running water.

Our work with Action Ireland Trust enabled significant support for local schools, while our partnership with the British High Commission laid the groundwork for future collaborations aimed at fostering entrepreneurship and green growth in Lesotho.

Innovative Building Methodologies

Breaking New Ground with Sustainable Construction – Countdown to conclusion of Stadium of Life

The Kick4Life Stadium of Life project in Maseru is a testament to the potential of sustainable building. Using FSC-certified timber, we have completed the West seating stand and we are about to complete the South stand. The stadium fencing is now 95% complete, and we’re gearing up for the next milestone—the completion of the Biodiversity Stand.

Collaborating with SolidarMed in Lesotho

We recently began an exciting partnership with SolidarMed Lesotho, an international non-profit that improves health care for 1.5 million people in Lesotho, Moçambique, Tanzania, Zambia and Zimbabwe, through infrastructure development and quality health services. In this partnership we are to design and construct a new youth centre in a health and community facility in the highlands of the Mokhotlong District. This project aligns with our mission to create sustainable and impactful solutions for underserved communities.

Potential Collaboration with Skate World Better

We’re thrilled to have also welcomed the Founder of Skate World Better, Martin and his associates, all the way from the Czech Republic, to Maseru, Lesotho! They are a non-profit organization building skateparks around Africa on a mission to support kids and young adults through skateboarding.This visit marked the beginning of a potential collaboration with rise International to explore how skateboarding can drive youth development and inspire change in our communities.

Click Here to Get Involved

Looking Ahead

As we plan for 2025, we’re excited to expand our initiatives and deepen our impact. From launching new community projects to advancing sustainable building practices, our mission to create lasting change remains steadfast.

Case Studies

African Clean Energy – Addressing limited access to clean cooking energy solutions in Africa.

December 9, 2024By Chris Theko0 comment

DATE 04/12/2024

BY MINAH LEKAU- Monitoring Evaluation & Research Coordinator

BACKGROUND:

African Clean Energy (ACE) is an international social enterprise dedicated to providing off-grid communities in developing countries with access to clean and affordable energy cooking solutions. Through the manufacturing and distribution of the ACE 1 hybrid energy system, ACE offers users a cost-effective product that provides both clean thermal energy for cooking and essential electricity for device charging and lighting.

THE PROBLEM:

The project set out to address limited access to clean cooking energy solutions in remote and underserved communities where geographic isolation and infrastructure make it difficult for communities to obtain while also eradicating poverty levels due to limited job opportunities by providing local employment opportunities that empower communities economically and socially

THE SOLUTION

ACE commissioned rise to design and install 4 self-sufficient mobile shops in Nazareth, Motsekuoa, Mapoteng, and Mphaki. Each mobile unit has a full photovoltaic (PV) solar system, batteries, fridges, printers, and other essential tools, enabling them to function independently. These mobile shops brought efficient, smoke-free cooking technologies directly to off-grid households, expanding access to life-changing solutions designed for these communities, improving health, reducing fuel usage, and fostering environmental sustainability.

THE METHODOLOGY

With support from EU funds, the rise team, in collaboration with our 2018 and 2019 Pioneers (Pioneers are graduates from rise‘s 10-month Design, Build, and Entrepreneurship in loco Fellowship program. Upon completing the fellowship, these graduates enter a three-year business incubation program, which offers business coaching, mentorship, access to power tools and machinery, workspace, networking opportunities, and project referrals) designed and constructed four mobile shops.

THE IMPACT:

Since the handover of these mobile energy hubs in 2019 to date several key accomplishments have been realized:

Strong Relationships with Village Leaders:
ACE has successfully established a strong rapport with local village leaders, significantly improving their Know Your Customer (KYC) process. These relationships have facilitated smoother operations and increased trust in ACE’s products and services.
Enhanced Marketing and Customer Base Expansion:
The mobile energy hubs have served as effective marketing tools, helping ACE increase its customer base. By offering more direct access to remote rural areas, ACE has been able to onboard new customers, further expanding its reach and impact.
Improved Service Delivery:
The hubs have played a crucial role in maintaining a consistent and reliable fuel distribution network for ACE’s hybrid energy systems. Additionally, the mobile energy hubs have enabled ACE to respond to customer maintenance requests more efficiently and quickly.

After-Sales Support:
These hubs, among the oldest in ACE’s network, have proven invaluable for providing after-sales support. They serve as a critical point of contact for a large portion of ACE’s customer base, offering essential repair services and guidance on the use of renewable energy technologies.
Educational Opportunities:
The hubs have created spaces where locals can educate themselves about renewable energy solutions and the benefits of transitioning to more sustainable energy sources. This shift in mindset is crucial for promoting the long-term adoption of clean energy technologies.
Local Employment and Women Empowerment:
Since the completion of the mobile shops, ACE has consistently hired three field agents and a watchman for each hub at any given time, specifically from the local area.

TESTIMONIALS

Rethabile Mafura- Director of ACE

“This initiative has successfully expanded ACE’s reach into rural, underserved communities, improving service delivery and creating economic opportunities, particularly for women. By providing energy access and education, ACE is dedicated to scaling its impact and driving social and environmental change in these regions.”

rise News

Lesotho exhibits at Triennale Milan, Italy for the first time

July 18, 2022By Chris Theko0 comment

More exposure internationally for the Mountain Kingdom as Lesotho is awarded a pavilion at the prestigious Triennale Museum in Milan, Italy, one of the world’s leading cultural institutions. This year Triennale Milano takes up and continues the important reflections that emerged from the last edition; Broken Nature, ensuring critical continuity with its proactive approach. The exhibition is conceived as a space for open, wide-ranging debates and exchanges of views, where different experiences, cultures, and perspectives can converge. The title of this 23rd International Exhibition is “Unknown Unknowns”, it offers itself to visitors as a rediscovery of mysteries.

Did you know that we only know a paltry 5% of the universe? Lesotho, a landlocked country in South Africa, is part of that 95% of the world still unknown to many. The research for the pavilion was conducted by Giada Zuan, on behalf of rise and the Milan-based architecture AOUMM, under the leadership of Luca Astorri, rise‘s lead architect and co-Founder of AUOMM. The research found that the Kingdom of the Sky through water forms an essential element of the country’s identity. “Lesotho Water Realms: a visual research on geopolitics, society, and rituals” offers the visitors three-dimensional scales between landscape, human proximity, and spirituality, through an assemblage of visual fragments.