Liberia: Lonestar Cell MTN Honors Women in Markets, Churches

When Lonestar Cell MTN staff approached Mary Fayiah at the Rally Town Market for her Mother's Day wish, she was skeptical that it would be granted.

She assumed the request was one of those times when individuals from non-governmental organizations come to inquire, then leave and never return.

But Madam Fayiah, a widow, was taken by surprise when staff from Lonestar Cell MTN returned with the answer to her request: LD20,000.

"I was convinced they would never arrive. I am thrilled because I will be able to expand my business. I am overjoyed. Lonestar Cell, may God bless you,” she said.

Lonestar Star Cell MTN Staff donated gifts to women at seven markets: Nancy Doe, Old Road, Red Light, Duala, West Point, Waterside, and Rally Town.

Their sudden appearance rocked the markets, leaving these market women with perpetual smiles.   Many of the women who received gifts are single mothers financially supporting their families and putting their children through college or universities.

“Whoever believes I would own a television?  We never had TV.  My children have been going to other people's houses to watch shows,” said 52-year-old Tayway Thomas, who received a Smart TV.

Both Madam Thomas and Madam Fayiah, had no idea that their long-awaited wishes would come true.

“I started building my house in 2007, and I've finished everything but the zinc,” said Kebbeh Tokpah, who received two bundles of zinc to finish her home.

Fifty-two year-old Tenneh Mulbah, who sells rubber dishes, received LD5,000 to purchase a Bible.  46-year-old Kebbeh Doyen received a glass window which fulfilled her long-awaited dream. 

The women praised Lonestar Cell MTN for the unexpected and needed gifts.

Lonestar Cell MTN Brand and Communications Manager, Abigail Nufeatalai, said seeing the women smile made her and the staff happy.

“What I love the most about our initiative is that we were able to surprise them with what they desperately wanted,” she said.  "Because of their challenges, we just wanted to make their lives brighter.”

Every year on the second Sunday in May, which is Mother's Day, the staff of Lonestar Cell MTN honors mothers and recognizes their importance in society. 

This year, Lonestar Cell MTN extended its celebrations of Mothers to an entire week, beginning with a gift basket distribution to Mothers in 12 Churches and at their homes from Congo Town to Somalia Drive. Then concluding with the distribution of gifts to market women.   

“This makes me feel great!” said Gloria Meajor of the United Methodist Church on 13th Street.  “To be recognized for using Lonestar Cell MTN products and services on Mother’s Day makes the gift even more awesome!”

Christopher Ssali, the Head of Mobile Financial Services, said, “We’re more than just a network, we’re touching lives.”

Launched in 2001, Lonestar Cell MTN is the trusted mobile phone and mobile money operator in Liberia. “Our singular focus is to lead the delivery of a bold, new digital world for our customers,” the company says. “Our reliable country-wide network, partnerships with Liberia’s major banks and over nine-thousand Mobile Money agents, Lonestar Cell MTN subscribers can deposit and withdraw cash, pay bills and pay for services seamlessly.  We believe everyone deserves the benefits of a modern and connected life.”