These disparate altitude levels experienced by Lesotho generate climates that can disrupt agricultural practices: during the month of January, the lowlands can experience 30°C compared to -20°C in the mountains during the winter.
A country higher than the highest point in the United Kingdom
If a few countries have highest points above 7,000 meters, such as Nepal, Pakistan, India, Bhutan or Tajikistan, only one on Earth in its entirety is located above 1,000 meters above from sea level: Lesotho, or Kingdom of Lesotho, a landlocked country in southern Africa. The lowest point in Nepal is only 60 meters away!
Most notably, no region of Lesotho lies below 1,400 meters sea level, although it is not the most mountainous country on the planet. In other words, even the lowest point of what we call the “Kingdom in the Sky” is still higher than the highest point in the United Kingdom (Ben Nevis, 1343 meters).
Taking refuge in the mountains to escape violence
As relayed by the Universal Encyclopedia, the mountainous region of Lesotho gives it a temperate climate and green regions. Besides Lesotho's highest point (Thabana Ntlenyana at 3,482 m above sea level) and the highlands (2500-3000 meters in the northeast of the country), half of the country's population lives in the lowlands at 1500 meters above sea level. altitude, in the west of the country.
This unusual geography can be explained by the very history of the country. In the 19th century, the Zulu people created an army and embarked on a particularly violent campaign of military expansion. To escape the clashes and bloodshed, certain men, led by King Moshoeshoe I, took refuge in the mountains.
Lesotho: a fragile political situation despite financial support
Shortly after, following a British treaty, this territory came under colonial domination in 1843. It was not until 1966 that the Kingdom gained its independence. Today, this territory with an area of 30,355 km2 has a total population of 2,281,000 inhabitants according to 2021 figures. Lesotho is still a member of the Commonwealth.
Despite a fragile political situation linked in particular to the proliferation of parties (60 to date), the last elections held in October 2022 were carried out smoothly according to France Diplomatie. It is now the millionaire Sam Matekane, 64, who makes his fortune from diamond mines who is at the head of the country.
With an unwavering passion for local news, Christopher leads our editorial team with integrity and dedication. With over 20 years’ experience, he is the backbone of Wouldsayso, ensuring that we stay true to our mission to inform.
