Lesotho: A Hidden Gem in the Heart of Southern Africa

Lesotho, often overlooked, is a mountainous country with rich traditions and surprising resources.

US President Donald Trump's recent comment highlighting that "nobody has ever heard of" Lesotho has sparked a wave of disbelief from its government. This small, landlocked kingdom, entirely surrounded by South Africa, boasts a unique landscape and culture that many may not recognize. Here are nine intriguing facts to help shed light on this 'hidden gem' of Southern Africa:

1. **The Kingdom in the Sky**: Dubbed the "Kingdom in the Sky," Lesotho consists predominantly of highlands, making travel to many villages accessible only on horseback, by foot, or via light aircraft. With an average elevation exceeding 1,000 meters (3,281 feet), it is the only independent country in the world situated entirely above this height. Its airstrip, Matekane, is infamous for being one of the most challenging for pilots due to its short runway and sheer drops at both ends.

2. **A Land Encircled by South Africa**: While Lesotho is completely encompassed by South Africa, its rugged mountain ranges pose significant barriers. The majority of its land is not suitable for agriculture, leading many of its population of over two million to seek employment in South Africa to escape local food shortages and economic struggles.

3. **Cultural Ties**: The Basotho people, as they are known, share linguistic and cultural ties with South Africans. Their language, Sesotho, is one of South Africa's official languages, with more speakers residing in South Africa than in Lesotho itself.

4. **'White Gold' Resource**: Water is Lesotho's most valuable export, often referred to as 'white gold' due to its significant contribution to South Africa's water supply. Additionally, diamonds are another key export commodity.

5. **Skiing in Africa**: The kingdom is home to Afriski, the highest ski resort in sub-Saharan Africa, located in the Maloti mountains at an elevation of 3,222 meters. This unique attraction draws winter sports enthusiasts from around the globe.

6. **Distinctive Culture**: The Basotho people are well-recognized for their colorful blankets and conical hats, known as mokorotlo, which symbolize their identity and heritage. The blankets serve as both traditional wear and gifts, rich with cultural significance.

7. **HIV/AIDS Crisis**: Lesotho suffers from one of the highest rates of HIV in the world, with approximately one in five adults affected. The US has invested nearly a billion dollars toward combating this epidemic since 2006.

8. **Charitable Endeavors**: The country's monarchy engages in philanthropy, notably through Prince Harry and Prince Seeiso's charity, Sentebale, which supports communities impacted by HIV/AIDS.

9. **Denim Exporter**: Lesotho proudly holds the title of "denim capital of Africa," manufacturing jeans for major American brands. Last year, it exported $237 million worth of clothing to the US, benefitting from the African Growth and Opportunity Act.

10. **Mental Health Crisis**: Troublingly, Lesotho has the highest suicide rate globally, attributed to various factors including drug and alcohol abuse, chronic unemployment, and insufficient mental health resources.

Lesotho remains a place of stark contrasts and rich cultural identity, deserving more recognition on the world stage.