Lesotho, a small but densely populated country, is situated in the heart of Southern Africa. It is bordered by the two countries of South Africa and has a population of around 2 million.
Lesotho is known as the Kingdom in the Sky which accurately describes its landscape. Lesotho is home to one of the worlds highest independent settlements: Thaba Tseka, an isolated village perched on a 5520 foot high mountain. The countrys mountain range creates a unique habitat for rare species of animals due to its altitude.
Lesotho is considered to be among the most vulnerable countries in the world due to its fragile environment, restricted resources and limited infrastructure. These conditions make living in this country very difficult and the people of Lesotho rely heavily on outside aid for survival. The economy of Lesotho is completely dependent on production of wool, mohair and workers wages from diamonds and other businesses in South Africa.
The rich cultural heritage of Lesotho stems from the traditional lifestyle of its people, which can be found throughout villages scattered throughout the country. Here, colorful traditional clothing is worn, music is heard and age-old customs are practiced.
Lesotho is often besieged by floods and droughts. The majority of the countrys surface is made up of mountainous terrain, making it vulnerable to extreme weather events such as flash flooding and wildfires.
There is an urgent need to respond to the needs of local communities in the aftermath of extreme weather events. During droughts, providing clean drinking water and sanitation services are of vital importance. The government is increasingly trying to provide resources to such rural communities and provide technical assistance to improve the infrastructure.
The government of Lesotho is keen to undertake a variety of vital developmental projects to promote economic and social development of the country. Projects such as renewable energy generation, energy-efficient buildings, and sustainable agriculture systems provide a means for a better future for all Lesotho citizens.
Both in agriculture and other economic and social development projects, there are a variety of paths that individuals and the government of Lesotho can take to support sustainable growth and a higher quality of life for its people.
In looking forward to the future of Lesotho, the United Nations has voiced its concern that the increasing rate of HIV/AIDS, as well as food insecurity, are making the country increasingly vulnerable to risk. Both of these issues require urgent and sustained action to address the social, economic and political causes driving the crisis.
Despite the numerous challenges Lesotho still has to face, with both the strength of tradition and the courage of its people it remains a vibrant nation that is worth celebrating. Through continued external support and a commitment to development, Lesotho will continue to make progress and achieve greater feats in the future.
