How Mohope Brew Became a Proudly South African Craft Beer
How Mohope Brew Became a Proudly South African Craft Beer. In 2019, Lebona Moleli, a trained biochemist with extensive brewing experience at SAB, launched Mohope Brew, South Africa’s proudly Black-owned craft beer brand. The name “Mohope,” meaning calabash in Sesotho, reflects Moleli’s vision to root the brand in African heritage and celebrate Basotho culture.
From Science to Brewing
Moleli’s path began in 1990, working in R&D, quality, and brewing at SAB before joining Coca-Cola and later founding several businesses. This blend of scientific acumen and entrepreneurial drive led him to experiment with beer at home in late 2018. After refining his recipe, he brewed the first official batch in November 2019.
The importance of expertise shines through Mohope’s rigorous approach to brewing. As an associate member of the Institute of Brewing and Distilling, Moleli ensured that quality matched tradition in every batch.
Rooted in African Identity
Mohope’s flagship product, the Premium Lager, is crafted with natural ingredients, malted barley, hops, yeast, and water. The beer’s brand identity celebrates African craftsmanship and heritage, specifically honoring Basotho culture via branding rooted in Moleli’s Lesotho origins.
By weaving cultural narrative into its identity, Mohope offers more than beer, it stands as a vessel of cultural pride and authentic representation.
Strategic Market Entry
Mohope made its debut at the Vilakazi Precinct in Soweto on December 1, 2019. It quickly secured placements in craft beer venues and hospitality outlets across Johannesburg and Lesotho. Positive early reception validated the brand’s quality and positioning.
Founder Moleli emphasized from day one that Mohope would remain niche, targeting discerning consumers that value cultural authenticity and quality.
Navigating COVID Disruptions
The COVID-19 pandemic brought a near five-month alcohol ban, challenging production and sales. Mohope responded with responsible drinking campaigns and used the pause to reshape strategy and plan for post-pandemic growth.
Rather than scaling unsustainably, Moleli stayed focused on quality and brand integrity, setting the stage for recovery and future opportunities.
Recognition and Community Impact
Mohope secured a top-four ranking among 220 brands at CapitalCraft, Gauteng’s premier craft beer outlet, a testament to consumer acceptance and brand momentum.
Social media and festival exposure continue to reinforce Mohope’s status among craft beer aficionados. The brand’s strong community ties in Johannesburg and Lesotho also strengthened support among culturally aligned consumers.
Expansion and Diversification
Mohope is preparing for a broader rollout. Pilsner and Premium Ale variants are in development. The brand is increasing taproom presence and exploring regional distribution, backed by a sustainable production strategy.
Lebona Moleli has stated his commitment to job creation and wealth development in South Africa as Mohope scales operations.
What Comes Next
Mohope plans to expand beyond its current operations by growing its beer range and entering new South African and regional markets. Moleli aims to create sustainable community impact through employment and cultural celebration.
Mohope Brew presents a powerful blueprint for entrepreneurs: combine technical expertise with cultural authenticity, test the market deliberately, adapt under pressure, and ground growth in impact. Lebona Moleli’s leadership shows that craft innovation and heritage can coexist profitably and meaningfully.
