Interesting facts about Lesotho Is a great opportunity to learn more about South Africa. A parliamentary monarchy operates here, where the king is the head of state. It is the only country in the world whose entire territory is located above 1.4 km above sea level.
So, here are the most interesting facts about the Kingdom of Lesotho.
- Lesotho gained independence from Great Britain in 1966.
- Because Lesotho is entirely in the highlands, it has been nicknamed "the kingdom in the sky."
- Did you know that Lesotho is the only country in Africa (see interesting facts about Africa) that has a ski resort?
- Lesotho is entirely surrounded by the territory of South Africa, which makes it, along with the Vatican and San Marino, one of the 3 states in the world, surrounded by the territory of only one country.
- The highest point in Lesotho is Tkhabana-Ntlenyana - 3482 m.
- The kingdom's motto is "Peace, rain, prosperity."
- An interesting fact is that Lesotho has been a permanent participant in the Olympic Games since 1972, but in its entire history, local athletes have not been able to win even a bronze medal.
- The official languages of Lesotho are English and Sesotho.
- Did you know that Lesotho is in the TOP 3 countries for HIV infection? Almost every third inhabitant is infected with this terrible disease.
- There are virtually no paved roads in Lesotho. One of the most popular types of "transport" among local residents is ponies.
- The traditional dwelling in Lesotho is considered to be a round clay hut with a thatched roof. It is curious that in such a building there is not a single window, and people sleep right on the floor.
- Lesotho has a high infant mortality rate from AIDS.
- The average life expectancy here is only 51 years, while experts say that in the future it may drop to 37 years. The reason for this development of events is the same AIDS.
- About 80% of the population of Lesotho is Christian.
- Only a quarter of Lesotho's citizens live in cities.
