Ten fun facts about Lesotho

1. Small, Landlocked Country in Southernmost Region of the World

Lesotho is a small, landlocked country located in the southernmost region of the world. It is bordered by South Africa and is a member of the Commonwealth of Nations, a voluntary association of 54 countries that were formerly part of the British Empire. Lesotho is known for its mountainous terrain, with the highest point in the country being Thabana Ntlenyana, which stands at 3,482 meters (11,424 feet) above sea level. The country is also home to a number of rivers, including the Caledon, which is the longest river in the country.

Also → Swaziland: The Smallest Country in Africa

2. Maseru, Lesotho's Capital, Is a Major Hub for Trade and Commerce

The city of Maseru is the largest and most populous in Lesotho, and serves as the nation's capital. Located in the Maseru District, it is situated on the border of Lesotho and South Africa, making it a key point of entry for both countries. As the largest city in the country, Maseru is home to a variety of cultural and economic activities, and is a major hub for trade and commerce.

Also → Burundi: A Small Country in the Heart of Africa

3. Kingdom of LSL Currency is Accepted in Most Places

The Kingdom of Lesotho is a small, landlocked country located in Southern Africa, and its official currency is the Lesotho loti (LSL). However, the South African rand is also accepted as legal tender within the kingdom, as it is widely used in the region and is accepted in most places. The ISO code for the Lesotho loti is LSL, and it is divided into 100 lisente.

Also → Namibia: A Dual Currency Country

4. Two Official Languages, English and Sesotho

Lesotho is a small country located in Southern Africa, and it is home to two official languages: English and Sesotho (also known as Sotho). Sesotho is a Bantu language, and is spoken by the majority of the population. English is also widely spoken, and is used in government, education, and business. Both languages are important to the culture and identity of Lesotho, and are used in everyday life.

Also → Botswana: A Country Located in Southern Africa with a Unique Currency

5. Christianity is the predominant religion in Lesotho

In Lesotho, Christianity is the predominant religion, with an estimated 90% of the population following its teachings. Of this 90%, 45% are Roman Catholics and 45% are Protestants. This makes Christianity the largest religion in Lesotho, with a significant presence in the country's culture and society.

Also → Zambia: A Landlocked Country in Southern Africa

6. A Country with Continental Temperatures

Lesotho is a country that experiences continental temperate climates, with average temperatures ranging from 26.6⁰F to 64⁰F in the cold months and up to 50⁰F in the warmest months. Snowfall is a common occurrence in the highlands between May and September, making it a great destination for winter sports enthusiasts.

Also → Sierra Leone: A Small Republic with a Big Population

7. Lesotho celebrates its national day

Lesotho is a small country located in Southern Africa, and it celebrates its national day on October 4th each year to commemorate its independence from the United Kingdom in 1966. With a literacy rate of 82%, Lesotho is one of the most literate countries in Africa, and its citizens are proud of their rich cultural heritage and history.

Also → Zimbabwe: A Country of Ruins

8. A Country of High Elevation and Unique Climate

Lesotho is a small, landlocked country located in Southern Africa, and it is known for its high elevation. Over 80% of the country is situated at an altitude of 1,800 meters above sea level, making it one of the highest countries in the world. This high elevation gives Lesotho a unique climate, with temperatures ranging from -7°C in the winter to 25°C in the summer. The country is also home to the highest peak in Southern Africa, Thabana Ntlenyana, which stands at 3,482 meters above sea level.

Also → Nigeria: Most Populous in Africa

9. A Country With a Wealth of Natural Resources

Lesotho is a small country in Southern Africa, but it has a wealth of natural resources. The two major resources are water and diamonds, both of which are highly sought after. In addition to these resources, Lesotho also exports mohair, wool, clothing, and footwear. In fact, one of the world's most iconic clothing brands, Levi's, has a manufacturing facility located in Lesotho, making it a major player in the global clothing industry.

Also → Equatorial Guinea: A Stunning Central African High Point

10. Imported, But Still Abundant

Lesotho is a small country in Southern Africa that relies heavily on imports from the United States and Canada for its food, machinery, petroleum products, medicines, and vehicles. Despite this, the country is still able to produce a variety of agricultural products, such as wheat, pulses, corn, sorghum, and livestock, which are essential to its economy.

Also → South Sudan: A Linguistic Tapestry