Lesotho
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At a glance
- Region
- Southern Africa
- Capital
- Maseru
- Population
- 2.3 million (2024)
- Area
- 30,355 km²
- Languages
- English, Sotho
- Currency
- Lesotho loti (LSL), South African rand (ZAR)
- Drives on the
- left
- Calling code
- +266
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Before you go
Overview
Lesotho is a landlocked country in South Africa. It has rivers, narrow valleys and mountains that surround it separating it from South Africa. The largest city which is also the capital city is Maseru.
It is a former British protectorate. The country gained independence in 1966 with Moshoeshoe II as king and Chief Leabua Jonathan as prime minister. The king was succeeded by his son King Letsie III in 1996 after his death in 1990.
In 1998, the country held its first general elections that resulted in post-election violence. Later on, other general elections were held in 2017 and Tom Thabane was elected Prime Minister.
The kingdom has no legislative or executive powers.
The country launched the Lesotho Highlands Water Project in 2004 which it partnered with South Africa to provide it with water and a source of hydropower.
Traditional circular huts with thatched roofs and coloured door frames.
The country is about 30,000 square kilometres in size with a population of 2.13 million as of 2019.
The ethnic groups include Basotho, Europeans and Asians.
The official languages are Sesotho and English.
The education system comprises of seven years of primary education, three years of junior secondary and two years of senior secondary.
The predominant religion in the country is Christianity.
The popular sports are football, Judo, boxing and long-distance running.
The country’s economy is based on agriculture. The main exports are textiles and diamonds.
The national dish is Pap-pap which is made from cornmeal.
Lesotho is wholly surrounded by South Africa but separated from it by unapproachable mountain ranges. It has an enclave within South Africa, bordering KwaZulu Natal, Free State and Eastern Cape provinces.
History
King Moshoeshoe I united the Basotho people in the 19th century and sought British protection against the Boers. The country became independent as Lesotho in 1966.
Food & culture
Papa, maize porridge, is the staple, eaten with vegetables and meat. The Basotho blanket and conical mokorotlo hat are national symbols.
Wildlife
Sehlabathebe National Park protects mountain grasslands, bearded vultures and rare plants.
Festivals & events
Moshoeshoe's Day on 11 March and the Morija Arts and Cultural Festival celebrate Basotho heritage.
Things to see
Maletsunyane Falls at Semonkong, Sani Pass, Thaba Bosiu and Sehlabathebe National Park.
Interesting facts
Lesotho is the only country in the world entirely above 1,000 metres. It is completely surrounded by South Africa.
