Lesotho

Lesotho is a landlocked sovereign state entirely surrounded by South Africa, located in southern Africa. Its capital and largest city is Maseru. With an area of about 30,355 square kilometers, it has a population of roughly 2.1 million. The official languages are Sesotho and English. Lesotho is a constitutional monarchy in which the king serves as head of state and a prime minister as head of government; the Parliament is bicameral, comprising the National Assembly and the Senate, and the country is divided into ten districts.

Geography and climate: The country sits high in the Maloti Mountains and Drakensberg range, giving it an average altitude well above sea level. The highest point is Thabana Ntlenyana at 3,482 meters. Its cool to temperate climate features snowy winters at higher elevations and summer rainfall.

History: Historically, Basotho people under Moshoeshoe I formed a unified polity in the early 19th century. Basutoland became a British protectorate in 1868 and gained independence in 1966 as Lesotho. Since then it has maintained a constitutional framework and membership in the Commonwealth.

Economy: Lesotho's economy relies on water resources and mining, especially diamonds, and on hydroelectric power generated for export to South Africa through the Lesotho Highlands Water Project. The country faces development challenges, including poverty and a high HIV prevalence, though education and health sectors receive ongoing attention.

Culture: The Basotho people form the majority; Sesotho and English are widely spoken. National symbols include the Basotho blanket and the mokorotlo hat. Religion is predominantly Christian, and cultural traditions influence music, dress, and social life.