# Lesotho

> sovereign state in southern Africa

**Wikidata**: [Q1013](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q1013)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lesotho)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/lesotho

## Summary

Lesotho is a country located on the continent of Africa [1]. The nation has a population of 2.2 million people as recorded in 2017 [2].It covers an area of 30k square units . The region observes the time zone UTC+02:00 and is identified as Africa/Maseru [3].

## Summary
Lesotho, officially the Kingdom of Lesotho, is a sovereign state and constitutional monarchy in Southern Africa. It is a landlocked country and an enclave, entirely surrounded by South Africa, with its capital at Maseru. The nation gained independence in 1966 and is recognized as the only independent state in the world that lies entirely above 1,000 meters in elevation, earning it the nickname "The Kingdom in the Sky."

## Key Facts
- **Official Name**: Kingdom of Lesotho (Muso oa Lesotho).
- **Entity Type**: Sovereign state, enclave, landlocked country, kingdom, country.
- **Independence**: Gained independence in 1966; replaced the former entity Basutoland.
- **Capital**: Maseru.
- **Government Form**: Constitutional monarchy.
- **Head of State**: Letsie III (King of Lesotho).
- **Head of Government**: Sam Matekane (Prime Minister, since October 28, 2022).
- **Area**: 30,355 square kilometres.
- **Population**: 2,007,201 (2016 census).
- **Continent**: Africa (Southern Africa).
- **Coordinates**: Latitude -29.55, Longitude 28.25.
- **Enclave**: Completely surrounded by South Africa.
- **Highest Point**: Thabana Ntlenyana (3,482 metres).
- **Lowest Point**: Orange River (1,400 metres).
- **Official Languages**: English, Sesotho.
- **National Anthem**: "Lesotho Fatse La Bontata Rona".
- **National Motto**: "Khotso, Pula, Nala" (Peace, Rain, Prosperity).
- **Currency**: Loti (LSL) and South African Rand (ZAR).
- **Timezone**: UTC+02:00 (Africa/Maseru).
- **Driving Side**: Left.
- **ISO Codes**: Alpha-2: LS, Alpha-3: LSO, Numeric: 426.
- **International Calling Code**: +266.
- **Internet TLD**: .ls.
- **Demonyms**: Mosotho (singular), Basotho (plural).
- **Age of Majority**: 21 years old.
- **Human Development Index (HDI)**: 0.514 (2021).
- **Democracy Index**: 6.30 (2020).
- **Gini Coefficient**: 44.9 (2017).
- **Unemployment Rate**: 26% (2014).

## FAQs
**What type of government does Lesotho have?**
Lesotho is a constitutional monarchy with a King as the head of state (currently Letsie III) and a Prime Minister as the head of government (currently Sam Matekane). The legislative body is the Parliament of Lesotho.

**What is the geography of Lesotho?**
Lesotho is located in Southern Africa and is the only country in the world that lies entirely above 1,400 meters in elevation. It is a landlocked enclave surrounded entirely by South Africa. Its highest point is Thabana Ntlenyana (3,482m), the highest peak in Southern Africa.

**What languages are spoken in Lesotho?**
The official languages are Sesotho and English. Other languages used include Zulu and Xhosa.

**What is the population and demographic profile of Lesotho?**
According to the 2016 census, the population is 2,007,201. The population is divided between rural (1,615,392 in 2022) and urban (690,433 in 2022) inhabitants. The country has a young population but faces challenges with life expectancy, which was 54.17 years in 2016.

**What is the economy of Lesotho like?**
Lesotho has a developing economy with a nominal GDP of $2.55 billion in 2022. The currency is the Loti, which is pegged to the South African Rand. Key economic indicators include a Gini coefficient of 44.9 (2017), an unemployment rate of 26% (2014), and a VAT rate of 14%.

**What international organizations is Lesotho a member of?**
Lesotho is a member of the United Nations (joined Oct 17, 1966), the Commonwealth of Nations, the African Union, the Southern African Development Community (SADC), and the World Trade Organization.

**What is the historical context of Lesotho?**
Formerly known as Basutoland, the territory gained independence from the United Kingdom in 1966. It has since maintained its sovereignty as a kingdom within the borders of South Africa.

**How is Lesotho identified in technical and data systems?**
The country uses the ISO 3166-1 codes LS, LSO, and 426. It has the M49 code of 426 and the ITU letter code LSO. Its ISNI IDs include 0000000403728910 and 0000000121783380.

## Why It Matters
Lesotho matters as a unique geopolitical entity in Africa, being one of only three independent states completely surrounded by another country (an enclave). Its existence represents a distinct national identity and culture (Basotho) that has persisted within the broader context of Southern African history and politics.

The nation is of significant geographical interest due to its extreme elevation. Often called "The Kingdom in the Sky" or "The Mountain Kingdom," it is the only country in the world with its entire territory above 1,000 meters. This geography influences its climate, biodiversity, and agriculture, making it a distinct environment in the African continent.

Lesotho plays a role in regional economics through its membership in the Southern African Customs Union (SACU) and the Common Monetary Area, using the Loti alongside the South African Rand. The Lesotho Highlands Water Project, a major engineering undertaking, is a critical source of water and hydroelectric power for the region, highlighting the country's strategic importance to South Africa.

Culturally, Lesotho is the home of the Basotho people, and the preservation of the Sesotho language and cultural practices (such as the Basotho blanket) contributes to the diverse heritage of the African continent. The country's challenges with development, health (particularly HIV/AIDS), and governance also provide important case studies for international development and humanitarian efforts.

## Notable For
- **World's Highest Lowest Point**: Its lowest point (1,400m at the Orange River) is the highest lowest point of any country.
- **Unique Enclave Status**: One of the few sovereign states entirely surrounded by a single other country (South Africa).
- **"The Kingdom in the Sky"**: The only country in the world situated entirely above 1,000 meters in elevation.
- **Thabana Ntlenyana**: Home to the highest peak in Southern Africa.
- **Dual Currency System**: Uses both the Loti and the South African Rand.
- **Constitutional Monarchy**: One of the few remaining monarchies in Africa.
- **National Motto**: "Khotso, Pula, Nala" (Peace, Rain, Prosperity).
- **Distinct National Identity**: Preserves a unique Basotho culture and language (Sesotho) within a larger regional context.

## Body

### Geography and Environment
Lesotho is situated in Southern Africa, entirely within the boundaries of South Africa, making it a landlocked enclave. The country occupies an area of 30,355 square kilometres. Its coordinates place it roughly at latitude -29.55 and longitude 28.25.

The terrain is characterized by high altitude and mountainous topography. The highest point is Thabana Ntlenyana, which rises to 3,482 metres, making it the highest peak in Southern Africa. The lowest point is at the confluence of the Orange and Makhaleng Rivers at 1,400 metres above sea level, which is the highest lowest point of any country globally.

Extremes of the country's territory include:
- Northernmost point: Lat -28.57, Lon 28.65
- Southernmost point: Lat -30.67558, Lon 28.11363
- Easternmost point: Lat -29.34096, Lon 29.45546
- Westernmost point: Lat -29.64941, Lon 27.01128

### Government and Politics
Lesotho operates as a **constitutional monarchy**. The head of state is the King, currently **Letsie III**, who has reigned since February 7, 1996 (excluding a previous period from 1990-1995). The head of government is the Prime Minister; **Sam Matekane** has held this office since October 28, 2022, succeeding Moeketsi Majoro.

The legislative branch consists of the **Parliament of Lesotho**, which is a bicameral body. The political system is classified as a **partly free country** by Freedom in the World.

The country maintains diplomatic relations with several nations, including Germany, South Africa, Taiwan, the United States, Russia, India, Georgia, and North Korea (relations established July 19, 1980).

### Demographics and Society
The population of Lesotho was recorded as **2,007,201** in the 2016 census. Population trends show a split between rural and urban dwellers, with a larger proportion living in rural areas (1,615,392 rural vs. 690,433 urban in 2022 estimates).

Demographic indicators include:
- **Life Expectancy**: 54.17 years (2016).
- **Total Fertility Rate**: 3.185 children per woman (2014 estimate).
- **Birth Rate**: 25.778 per 1,000 people (2022).
- **Death Rate**: 14.069 per 1,000 people (2022).
- **Male Population**: 1,137,496 (2022).
- **Female Population**: 1,168,329 (2022).

The people of Lesotho are called **Basotho** (plural) or **Mosotho** (singular). The official languages are **Sesotho** and **English**. Other languages present include Zulu and Xhosa. The **age of majority** is 21 years.

### Economy and Infrastructure
Lesotho's economy is supported by agriculture, manufacturing, and remittances from miners working in South Africa. The nominal GDP was **$2.55 billion USD** in 2022.

Key economic and infrastructure details:
- **Currency**: Loti (LSL) and South African Rand (ZAR).
- **Central Bank**: Central Bank of Lesotho.
- **VAT Rate**: 14%.
- **Unemployment Rate**: 26% (2014).
- **Gini Coefficient**: 44.9 (2017).
- **Human Development Index (HDI)**: 0.514 (2021), indicating medium human development.
- **Inequality-adjusted HDI**: 0.372 (2021).

Infrastructure standards include:
- **Driving Side**: Left.
- **Mains Voltage**: 220 Volts at 50 Hz.
- **Electrical Plug Type**: BS 546 ("Type M").
- **Emergency Numbers**: 112 (Police), 114 (Ambulance), 115 (Fire).
- **License Plate Code**: LS (since 1967).

### Administrative Divisions
Lesotho is divided into **10 districts**:
1.  Berea District
2.  Butha-Buthe District
3.  Leribe District
4.  Mafeteng District
5.  Maseru District
6.  Mohale's Hoek District
7.  Mokhotlong District
8.  Qacha's Nek District
9.  Quthing District
10. Thaba-Tseka District

### International Relations and Memberships
Lesotho is an active participant in international diplomacy. It has been a member of the **United Nations** since October 17, 1966, and the **Commonwealth of Nations** since 1966.

Other significant memberships include:
- **African Union**
- **World Trade Organization**
- **Southern African Development Community (SADC)**
- **Southern African Customs Union (SACU)**
- **Organisation of African, Caribbean and Pacific States**
- **UNESCO** (since September 29, 1967)
- **World Health Organization**
- **Interpol** (since September 6, 1971)
- **International Telecommunication Union** (since May 26, 1967)
- **Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons** (since April 29, 1997)
- **African Development Bank**
- **International Bank for Reconstruction and Development** (since July 25, 1968)
- **International Finance Corporation** (since September 29, 1972)
- **African Continental Free Trade Area**

### Symbols and Culture
- **National Flag**: Flag of Lesotho (current design adopted October 4, 2006).
- **Coat of Arms**: Coat of arms of Lesotho.
- **National Anthem**: "Lesotho Fatse La Bontata Rona".
- **Motto**: "Khotso, Pula, Nala" (Peace, Rain, Prosperity).
- **Tourism Slogan**: "The Kingdom In The Sky".
- **Unicode Character**: 🇱🇸

### Technical Identifiers and Standards
Lesotho is identified by numerous technical codes:
- **ISO 3166-1**: LS (Alpha-2), LSO (Alpha-3), 426 (Numeric).
- **ISO 3166-2**: LS- (national prefix).
- **IOC Country Code**: LES.
- **FIFA Country Code**: LES.
- **ITU Letter Code**: LSO.
- **ITU Object ID**: 2.16.426.
- **M49 Code**: 426.
- **Telephone Country Code**: +266.
- **Mobile Country Code**: 651.
- **Maritime Identification Digits**: 644.
- **Aircraft Registration Prefix**: None listed in primary source, but ICAO location indicators are used.
- **Internet TLD**: .ls.
- **UNDP Country Code**: LES.

## References

1. [Source](https://www.workwithdata.com/place/lesotho)
2. Virtual International Authority File
3. BnF authorities
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5. [Source](https://lingualibre.org/wiki/Q823274)
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7. [Source](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/African_Development_Bank)
8. [Interpol](https://www.interpol.int/Member-countries/World)
9. [Source](https://www.interpol.int/Who-we-are/Member-countries/Africa/LESOTHO)
10. [Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons](https://www.opcw.org/about-opcw/member-states/)
11. [Source](https://www.opcw.org/about-us/member-states/lesotho)
12. [Source](http://www.unesco.org/eri/cp/ListeMS_Indicators.asp)
13. [Source](http://www.upu.int/en/the-upu/member-countries.html)
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28. [Source](https://catalog.ihsn.org//catalog/8293/download/89065)
29. [Source](https://data.worldbank.org/indicator/SI.POV.GINI)
30. [Source](http://data.worldbank.org/indicator/SL.UEM.TOTL.ZS)
31. [Source](http://cnig.gouv.fr/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/CNT-PVM_r%C3%A9vis%C3%A9_2020-01-27-1.pdf)
32. [DLE online dictionary](https://dle.rae.es/lesotense)
33. [Source](https://freedomhouse.org/report/freedom-world/freedom-world-2017)
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35. [Source](http://chartsbin.com/view/edr)
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38. [UNESCO Institute for Statistics](http://data.uis.unesco.org/index.aspx?queryid=3372)
39. [International Numbering Resources Database](http://www.itu.int/net/itu-t/inrdb/e129_important_numbers.aspx)
40. [World Plugs](http://www.iec.ch/worldplugs/list_bylocation.htm)
41. UMLS 2023
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43. [Source](https://countrycodebase.com/undp/)
44. Treccani's Enciclopedia on line
45. Quora
46. Aligned ISNI and Ringgold identifiers for institutions
47. [Lesotho - Google Maps](https://www.google.com/maps/place/Lesotho/@-29.6203655,27.574095,9z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m6!3m5!1s0x1e8c4827d65f8ceb:0x232d57b878d11eb3!8m2!3d-29.609988!4d28.233608!16zL20vMDRodnc?entry=ttu)
48. Enciclopedia Treccani
49. [UNESCO Institute for Statistics](http://data.uis.unesco.org/index.aspx?queryid=239)
50. [archINFORM](https://www.archinform.net/service/wd_aiort.php)