Population: 1,858,000

Location: landlocked enclave within South Africa

Languages : English, Sesotho, Zulu, Xhosa.

Religion: Christianity and Indigenous beliefs

Capital city: Maseru

Literacy Rate: 85%

Life Expectancy: 36.8 years (heavily affected by AIDS rate)

Interesting facts:

Formerly known as Basutoland, Lesotho gained its independence from England on October 4, 1966 with King Moshoeshoe II as its sovereign. It is a member of the Commonwealth of Nations.

Lesotho has been heavily affected b the HIV-Aids crisis. Recent estimates note that between 30-35% of its population is infected. Such high rates have taken a toll on areas such as education and healthcare. Some demographers estimate that the country could see declining population in coming years if the current trends continue.

Another recent hit to the country is drought which has left many wondering how this small nation will manage to avoid famine in months to come.

Products:

You can find products from Lesotho at: the Basketry Stand and the Jewelry Stand

Related to country

Fables: We currently have no fables from Lesotho.