Lesotho
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In response to recent comments by US President Donald Trump suggesting unfamiliarity with Lesotho, the government of the Kingdom of Lesotho has indirectly asserted the nation's distinct geographical, cultural, and economic significance.
The landlocked country, completely surrounded by South Africa, contends it possesses attributes that merit global recognition. Lesotho's defining feature is its mountainous terrain, earning it the nickname "The Kingdom in the Sky." It is the only independent nation located above 1,000 meters (3,281 feet), with its lowest point at 1,400 meters. This topography presents logistical challenges, with many villages accessible only by horseback, foot, or small aircraft.
The Matekane Airstrip, notorious for its short runway ending in a steep drop, exemplifies the country's difficult landscape. Geographically and economically intertwined with South Africa, Lesotho faces inherent challenges. Limited arable land contributes to food insecurity, driving many Basotho citizens to seek employment opportunities across the border.
Sesotho, the language spoken by the Basotho people (population exceeding two million), is also one of South Africa’s 11 official languages, with a larger Sesotho-speaking population residing in South Africa. Water, often referred to as "white gold," constitutes Lesotho’s primary export to South Africa, alongside diamonds. This reliance on resource exports is crucial for the nation's economic survival, given its limited agricultural capacity.
Adding to its unique attributes, Lesotho is home to Afriski, the highest ski resort in sub-Saharan Africa, located at an altitude of 3,222 meters in the Maloti mountains. The cultural heritage of the Basotho people is rich, exemplified by traditional blankets featuring intricate patterns woven from thick wool, which tell the stories of Lesotho's past and symbolize important life events. The iconic mokorotlo hat is another cultural symbol.
Despite its cultural wealth, Lesotho faces significant public health crises. The country grapples with one of the world’s highest HIV prevalence rates, affecting approximately one in five adults. The US government has invested nearly $1 billion since 2006 through prevention, care, and treatment programs. Lesotho's ties with the United Kingdom are strong. Prince Harry co-founded the charity Sentebale with Lesotho's Prince Seeiso, focusing on supporting young people affected by HIV/AIDS.
Prince Harry's involvement with Lesotho began with his initial visit at age 19 and continues through ongoing engagements with the country. Lesotho has emerged as a key player in the global garment industry, particularly in denim production for American brands such as Levi's and Wrangler, earning it the title of "denim capital of Africa."
In 2021, Lesotho exported $237 million worth of clothing and textiles to the US under the African Growth and Opportunity Act (Agoa), positioning it as one of sub-Saharan Africa's largest clothing exporters to the US
Lesotho also confronts a severe mental health crisis, reflected in its alarmingly high suicide rate of 87.5 per 100,000 people – nearly ten times the global average.
Experts attribute this to a combination of factors, including drug and alcohol abuse, unemployment, and a lack of adequate mental health services.