Mokoena scored Bafana Bafana's first goal in a 3-1 win at the Bahir Dar Stadium to maintain their position as Group G leaders in their quest to qualify for the Qatar 2022 World Cup.
Speaking after Saturday's crucial encounter, Mokoena shared what it means to him to pull on the Bafana jersey.
"Every time I get a call-up it's always an honour and privilege to represent my country," Mokoena said.
"I'm very honoured to be here and it's the proudest moment of my life to represent my country.
"Especially being part of tournaments such as the 2020 Olympics, Afcon, being part of the Under-20s to the Under-23s and now I'm with the senior team.
"We've been speaking of Vision 2022 since 2015 and now I'm there, and we are the group that is going to take Bafana Bafana to the World Cup.
"So it's the proudest moment of my life and I'm sure my family is very happy. I'm sure the young kids back home have been given hope that they can also make it big.
"Because when they see someone from a small hometown like Bethlehem making it in South Africa at the top level, I think it's a motivation for them, and for me.
"It motivates me more to work harder and to succeed more than I already have and I'm very hungry for more and I'm looking forward to the future."
Bafana next face Ethiopia in a return leg at the FNB Stadium on Tuesday.
Kick-off is at 18:00.