Lesotho’s foreign minister was shocked and upset after U.S. President Donald Trump said most people had “never heard of” the country. Trump made the comment during a speech to U.S. Congress while talking about foreign aid.
“Eight million dollars to promote LGBTQI+ in the African nation of Lesotho, which nobody has ever heard of,” Trump said, causing laughter in the room.
Lesotho’s Foreign Minister, Lejone Mpotjoane, said the comment was “very insulting.” He even invited Trump to visit the country to learn more about it in person.
But for those who don’t know much about Lesotho, here are 10 important things that make this small African nation worth knowing:
1) The Only Country Entirely Above 1,000 Meters
Lesotho is the only country in the world where all the land is over 1,000 meters (3,281 feet) above sea level. That’s why it’s called “The Kingdom in the Sky.”
This high altitude means cold winters and snow in some areas, which also affects farming. Still, the stunning mountain views attract tourists from all over the world.
2) Completely Surrounded by South Africa
Lesotho is one of only three countries in the world completely surrounded by another country (the others are Vatican City and San Marino in Italy).
Being landlocked brings challenges, like depending on South African ports for trade. Still, Lesotho has its own strong culture, language, and government.
3) A Country That Sells Water
Lesotho exports water to South Africa through a major project called the Lesotho Highlands Water Project. Water from Lesotho’s rivers is stored in big dams and sent through tunnels to South African cities like Johannesburg and Pretoria.
This brings money to Lesotho but has also caused concerns. Some communities were moved and farmland was lost because of the project.
4) Big Player in the Jeans Market
Image: Factory workers sewing jeans / Display of Levi’s or Gap jeans
Lesotho is one of Africa’s top exporters of denim jeans, selling to big U.S. brands like Levi’s, Wrangler, and Gap. Trade deals like AGOA have helped grow the garment industry and create thousands of jobs.
5) One of the Highest HIV Rates
Image: HIV awareness poster or health clinic in Lesotho
Sadly, Lesotho has the second highest HIV rate in the world — about 1 in every 5 adults lives with HIV.
Since 2006, the U.S. has given almost $1 billion to help Lesotho with HIV treatment and prevention.
6) Home to Africa’s Highest Ski Resort
Image: Afriski resort with snow-covered slopes
Lesotho has the Afriski Mountain Resort, the highest ski resort in sub-Saharan Africa. It’s located in the Maloti Mountains, more than 3,200 meters above sea level, and gets real snow during the winter.
7) A Kingdom with a King
Image: King Letsie III or the royal palace
Lesotho is a constitutional monarchy, meaning it has a king but also an elected government. King Letsie III is the current ruler, but he mostly serves a symbolic role without political power.
8) One of Africa’s Tallest Dams
Image: Aerial view of Katse Dam
The Katse Dam, part of the water export project, is one of the highest dams in Africa at 185 meters tall. It’s used for both hydropower and water supply.
9) Highest Suicide Rate in the World
Image: Mental health awareness ribbon or peaceful landscape
Lesotho has the highest suicide rate in the world, with about 88 suicides per 100,000 people. Experts say more mental health support is urgently needed in the country.
10) A Strong Horse-Riding Culture
Image: Basotho rider with a traditional hat and pony
In Lesotho’s mountains, horses and donkeys are still key for getting around. The Basotho pony is famous for being tough and able to travel steep, rocky paths. Horse-riding is part of local culture and daily life.
So, next time someone says “nobody has heard of Lesotho,” you’ll know better.
This small mountain kingdom is rich in history, culture, and natural beauty — and it deserves recognition.