Recently, it’s come to our attention that some people think nobody has heard of Lesotho. Well, we’re here to change that.
Lesotho is so much more than just a name on a map. It’s a nation full of history, culture resilience, and breathtaking beauty. Let’s take a moment to appreciate what makes the Kingdom of Lesotho truly remarkable!
A nation of 2.3 million kind and courageous people
Lesotho is home to the Basotho people, who have a rich cultural heritage and a deep sense of community. Their language, Sesotho, is one of the country’s official languages and is spoken with pride across the nation. The Basotho are known for their warmth, hospitality, and unwavering spirit, always supporting one another through challenges.
A country of breathtaking beauty
Nicknamed the “Kingdom in the Sky”, Lesotho is the only country in the world entirely above 1,400 meters (4,600 feet) in elevation. Its majestic mountains, rolling hills and stunning rivers will have you in awe. From the famous Maletsunyane Falls, one of the highest single-drop waterfalls in Africa, to the scenic Sani Pass, Lesotho is a hidden gem for nature lovers.
A country of rich culture and tradition
The Basotho blanket, a vibrant and symbolic piece of clothing, is a staple of the nation’s identity. These blankets are worn with pride and carry deep cultural meaning. Lesotho is also known for its horse-riding heritage, as horses are essential for transportation in the mountainous terrain. Traditional ceremonies and storytelling traditions remain strong, connecting generations through shared history and values.
In Lesotho, mothers and grandmothers carry their babies (or grand-babies) on their backs wrapped in a traditional Basotho blanket or towel. This keeps babies clean, warm and protected from all the red dust that blows throughout the tiny mountain kingdom. In addition, it keeps mom’s hands free to do her daily chores.
A country made of resilient communities
Despite economic challenges and harsh winters, the people of Lesotho are incredibly resilient and resourceful. Many Basotho rely on subsistence farming to provide for their families, growing crops like maize and beans. Community-driven initiatives help to support families and strengthen local economies. Help Lesotho work directly with a number of rural communities and schools to provide essential resources, education and support.
A country with beautiful music and dancing
Music and dance are at the heart of Basotho culture. Famo music, a traditional genre featuring the accordion, rhythmic drumming and poetic lyrics, tells the stories of the people—of struggle, love and resilience. The mokhibo and mohobelo dances performed by all ages, showcase the vibrancy of the Basotho spirit. It’s common that during a Help Lesotho program session, participants regularly break into song and dance!
We put together a fun video celebrating all the things that makes Lesotho so special, you can watch this video here. We encourage you to share it with your networks to spread the word!
