In the early 19th century Basotho Chief Moshoeshoe united tribes in this mountainous land surrounded by South Africa. To establish a buffer against Boer expansion, he asked the British to administer the kingdom. Lesotho became independent in 1966. In 1993 it became a constitutional monarchy. Water is Lesotho’s major natural resource. Completion of a large hydropower plant in 1998 helps the economy expand through the sale of water to South Africa.
Fast Facts
- Population:
- 1,804,000
- Capital:
- Maseru; 170,000
- Area:
- 30,355 square kilometers (11,720 square miles)
- Language:
- English, Sesotho, Zulu, Xhosa
- Religion:
- Christian, indigenous beliefs
- Currency:
- Loti, South African rand
- Life Expectancy:
- 37
- GDP per Capita:
- U.S. $2,700
- Literacy Percent:
- 85
ECONOMY
- Industry: Food, beverages, textiles, apparel assembly, handicrafts
- Agriculture: Corn, wheat, pulses, sorghum; livestock
- Exports: Manufactures (clothing, footwear, road vehicles), wool, mohair
Source: The National Geographic
CIA- The World Factbook
