Lesotho, a small, mountainous country in southern Africa, may not frequently make global headlines, but it has a rich history, unique geography, and significant cultural identity. Here are nine intriguing facts about this landlocked nation, which is entirely surrounded by South Africa:
1. The Kingdom in the Sky
- Lesotho is known as the “Kingdom in the Sky” because it lies entirely above 1,000 meters (3,281 feet) in elevation, making it the only country in the world with this distinction.
- Its lowest point is 1,400 meters, and its rugged highlands mean many villages are accessible only by horseback, foot, or light aircraft.
- It is home to the Matekane Airstrip, one of the world’s most challenging airstrips, featuring a short runway with steep drops at both ends.
2. Completely Surrounded by South Africa
- Lesotho is encircled by South Africa, separated by mountain ranges that limit access.
- Its people, the Basotho, share cultural and linguistic ties with South Africans. The language Sesotho, spoken in Lesotho, is also one of South Africa’s 11 official languages and is spoken by more people in South Africa than in Lesotho.
3. ‘White Gold’ – Lesotho’s Greatest Resource
- Water is Lesotho’s most valuable resource, often referred to as “white gold.”
- Water from Lesotho is exported to South Africa, providing a critical revenue stream.
- Lesotho is also rich in diamonds, which are another major export.
4. The Highest Ski Resort in Sub-Saharan Africa
- Lesotho boasts Afriski, a ski resort located at 3,222 meters above sea level in the Maloti Mountains.
- It’s one of only a few ski resorts in Africa, attracting visitors from across the continent and beyond.
5. Cultural Identity and Basotho Traditions
- The people of Lesotho are called Basotho.
- Iconic cultural symbols include:
- Mokorotlo: A traditional conical hat that appears on Lesotho’s national flag.
- Basotho blankets: Thick woolen blankets with intricate patterns, often used as shawls during ceremonies or given as gifts.
6. Battling a High HIV Prevalence Rate
- Lesotho has one of the highest rates of HIV/AIDS in the world, with one in five adults living with the disease.
- The US government has contributed nearly $1 billion since 2006 to support prevention, treatment, and care services in Lesotho.
7. Royal Connections and Charity Work
- Lesotho is a constitutional monarchy with a royal family, although it is governed by an elected prime minister.
- Prince Seeiso of Lesotho, the younger brother of King Letsie III, is close friends with Prince Harry of the UK. Together, they founded the charity Sentebale, which supports young people in Lesotho affected by HIV/AIDS.
8. The Denim Capital of Africa
- Lesotho has become a major exporter of jeans, supplying iconic brands like Levi’s and Wrangler.
- It is often referred to as the “Denim Capital of Africa” and is one of sub-Saharan Africa’s largest exporters of clothing to the US.
- In 2024, Lesotho exported $237 million worth of textiles to the US under the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA), ranking second by export value among eligible countries.
9. The Highest Suicide Rate in the World
- Lesotho has the world’s highest suicide rate, with 87.5 suicides per 100,000 people annually, according to the UN World Health Organization.
- Contributing factors include unemployment, substance abuse, and a lack of mental health services, highlighting the need for greater attention to mental health challenges in the country.
Lesotho’s unique geography, rich cultural heritage, and economic challenges make it a country worth learning about. From its towering mountains to its close ties with South Africa and global impact in industries like water and textiles, Lesotho is far more than “the country nobody has ever heard of.” It is a nation with a compelling story, deserving of recognition on the world stage.
