Lesotho
Lesotho
- Capital
- Maseru
- Population
- 2,142,252
- Region
- Africa
- Languages
- English, Southern Sotho
Lesotho holds the unique distinction of being the only independent state in the world that lies entirely above 1,400 meters in elevation. Because of this extreme altitude, it is one of the few places in Africa where snowfall is a regular occurrence and sustainable ski resorts operate during the winter months. The country is often referred to as the Kingdom in the Sky because its lowest point is higher than the highest point of many other nations.
Currency
The official currency is the Lesotho Loti (plural Maloti), which uses the ISO code LSL. Introduced in 1980 to replace the South African Rand, it remains pegged to the Rand at a one-to-one ratio through the Common Monetary Area agreement.
Flag symbolism
The national flag features a horizontal tricolor of blue, white, and green with a black Basotho hat, known as a mokorotlo, centered in the white stripe. The blue represents the rain which is vital for agriculture, while the white symbolizes peace, and the green signifies the nation's prosperity and lush land. The mokorotlo is the traditional straw headwear of the Basotho people and serves as a powerful symbol of national identity and unity.
Emblem history
The coat of arms features a traditional Basotho shield backed by a spear and a knobkierie, which is a traditional wooden club. Supporting the shield are two Basotho horses, a breed known for its hardiness in the rugged mountain terrain. Below the shield, the national motto 'Khotso, Pula, Nala' is inscribed on a ribbon, which translates to 'Peace, Rain, Prosperity' in the Sesotho language.