#KnowYourCosafaCupCountries: Lesotho
The Kingdom of Lesotho, is a mountainous, landlocked country completely surrounded by the Republic of South Africa.
POLOKWANE – The official languages of Lesotho are Sesotho which is also known as southern Sotho and English but because of it’s close proximity to South Africa, there are countries that have overlapped and as a result a few Nguni languages are spoken by the minority, particularly Zulu and Xhosa.
The cuisine in Lesotho features African traditions and British influence. Their dishes feature potato, seafood, rice and vegetables, mielie pap is also a staple food within the country.
Interesting facts about Lesotho :
1. Lesotho does not have many forests. In fact, forests cover less than 1% of the land area.
2. Lesotho is a land of clear blue skies and more than 300 days of sunshine a year.
3. Basotho are proud of their colourful patterned blankets, made to replace animal skins, which visitors can buy as souvenirs of Basotho tribal culture.
4. Lesotho is home to the highest altitude pub in Africa at 2874 metres above sea level. It’s located right at the border with South Africa, and the end of the iconic Sani Pass (or the beginning if you come from Lesotho)
5. The currency is called the “Basotho Loti” (Maloti in plural) and is pegged to the South African Rand at a ratio of 1:1. The Rand is accepted freely everywhere in Lesotho, however the Loti is not accepted in South Africa.
