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.