In an address to Congress on Tuesday 4 March 2025, US President Donald J. Trump announced cuts to foreign aid, including $8 million allocated for promoting LGBTQI+ rights in Lesotho, referring to it as "an African nation... nobody has ever heard of," a remark that drew laughter from Republican members of Congress.
Lesotho's Foreign Minister, Lejone Mpotjoane, expressed shock and insult at Trump's comment, emphasizing Lesotho's sovereignty and the inappropriateness of such a dismissive reference. He acknowledged the country's reliance on U.S. aid, particularly in health and agriculture.
In Lesotho, citizens expressed disappointment and anger, feeling their country was unfairly belittled on the international stage. Many took to social media to share their pride in Lesotho's rich culture and history, countering the notion that their nation is insignificant or unknown. In a show of unity, citizens from other African countries rallied behind Lesotho to show their support.
Proving that there is no such thing as bad publicity, Trump’s comments have the world talking about Lesotho. Here are five things you should know:
Lesotho is one of the world's highest countries, with its lowest point sitting at 1,400 meters (4,593 feet) above sea level. This unique geography earned Lesotho the nickname "The Kingdom in the Sky." Adding to its uniqueness, Lesotho is one of only three countries in the world that is entirely surrounded by another country (South Africa) - the others being San Marino and Vatican City.
Lesotho's cultural heritage is deeply rooted in the Basotho people. King Moshoeshoe I (c. 1786 – 11 March 1870) was the founder and first king of the Basotho nation, which is now known as Lesotho. As a young man, he was known for his intelligence, leadership, and bravery. He earned the name Moshoeshoe, meaning "the shaver," after a victorious cattle raid where he cleverly “shaved off” his enemies' wealth.
King Moshoeshoe I is celebrated for his remarkable leadership, diplomacy, and nation-building skills that united various clans and preserved the Basotho people's sovereignty during a turbulent period in Southern African history.
King Letsie III is the current monarch of Lesotho. Born as David Mohato Bereng Seeiso on 17 July 1963, he was the eldest son of King Moshoeshoe II and Queen Mamohato Bereng Seeiso. He studied at Ampleforth College, a Roman Catholic school in Yorkshire, England. The King later attended the University of Bristol, where he earned a degree in law. He furthered his studies in developmental studies at the University of Cambridge and in agriculture at Wye College, now part of Imperial College London.
Afriski Mountain Resort is a unique ski destination located in the Maluti Mountains of Lesotho. Sitting at an altitude of 3,222 meters (10,570 feet) above sea level, it is one of only two ski resorts in Southern Africa, offering a rare alpine experience on the continent.
Located in the Butha-Buthe District of Lesotho, Afriski is about 4.5 hours' drive from Johannesburg, South Africa. The resort caters to both winter sports enthusiasts and summer adventure seekers, making it a year-round destination. Opened in 2002, the resort has become popular for its well-maintained ski slopes, cozy accommodations, and vibrant social scene.
The peak skiing season is during the Southern Hemisphere’s winter months, particularly from June to August. This is the ideal time for skiing, snowboarding, and other winter sports. When skiing isn't available in summer, Afriski transforms into an adventure hub for mountain biking, trail running, hiking, fly fishing and scenic drives and photography.
Lesotho is a hidden gem for nature lovers, offering breathtaking landscapes, rugged mountain peaks, serene waterfalls, and unique geological formations. Its untouched wilderness makes it a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts seeking adventure and tranquility.
Here’s a guide to the best nature sightseeing spots in Lesotho:
Thaba Bosiu (Mountain of the Night) is a flat-topped mountain that served as King Moshoeshoe I's fortress during the 19th century. Legend says the mountain “grows taller at night,” adding to its mystique. The summit offers panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and mountains. Trails to the summit are popular with visitors seeking both history and natural beauty.
Maletsunyane Falls also known as Semonkong (The Place of Smoke). It is one of the tallest single-drop waterfalls in the Southern Hemisphere, plunging 192 meters (630 feet) into a gorge. Visitors can enjoy hiking along the surrounding trails, abseiling down the waterfall (one of the world's highest abseil points) and taking photos of the stunning views.
The Katse Dam is part of the Lesotho Highlands Water Project and is the second-largest dam in Africa. The dam offers boat tours where visitors can explore the vast expanse of the reservoir surrounded by lush hills. Nearby, the Katse Botanical Gardens protects endangered plant species native to Lesotho’s highlands.
The Sehlabathebe National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This pristine park is filled with rugged sandstone formations, alpine grasslands, and crystal-clear streams. Home to rare species such as the Maloti minnow, bearded vulture, and the ice rat. It is popular for hiking, birdwatching, and exploring ancient San rock art sites.
The Basotho pony is essential for navigating Lesotho’s rugged terrain. These hardy animals are widely used in rural areas for transport and farming, remaining a vital part of everyday life.
Lesotho is a paleontological treasure trove. The Quthing Dinosaur Footprints are one of Lesotho's most fascinating natural and historical attractions. These well-preserved fossilized tracks offer a glimpse into the prehistoric world, dating back over 200 million years.
These footprints belong to early Jurassic period dinosaurs, making them some of the oldest known dinosaur tracks in the world. The footprints are embedded in sandstone rock formations that have endured for millions of years. Scientists believe the tracks were made by a variety of small to medium-sized dinosaurs that once roamed this region.
The most common footprints are attributed to Lesothosaurus, a small, bipedal herbivorous dinosaur that is named after Lesotho itself. Tracks from theropods (carnivorous dinosaurs similar to velociraptors) have also been identified, with distinctive three-toed prints. The site is part of the Stormberg Group, a geological formation known for its abundance of fossils.
Lesotho’s dinosaur footprints would undoubtedly impress Ross Geller (from Friends), who famously adored paleontology. For visitors fascinated by dinosaurs, this site offers a rare chance to witness preserved evidence of these ancient creatures.
From skiing adventures and stunning waterfalls to vibrant culture and rich history, Lesotho offers a travel experience like no other. So next time someone says no one’s heard of Lesotho, you can proudly share these fascinating facts and inspire them to visit this hidden African treasure.
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