What Lesotho, country Trump said 'nobody knows of,' offers US
What's the story
In a recent address to Congress, United States President Donald Trump defended his administration's decision to cut humanitarian aid to countries, including a country he said "nobody has ever heard of"— Lesotho.
The comment surprised Lesotho's foreign minister, Lejone Mpotjoane, who described it as "quite insulting."
"Lesotho is such a significant and unique country...I would be happy to invite the president, as well as the rest of the world," Mpotjoane was quoted as saying by Reuters.
Aid reduction
US aid cuts impact Lesotho's health initiatives
Lesotho, a mountainous kingdom surrounded by South Africa, has been the worst hit by the US aid cuts.
The country is heavily dependent on foreign aid for health programs, especially for HIV/AIDS.
Almost a quarter of Lesotho's population is living with HIV, and money from the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) has been critical in providing antiretroviral treatment.
Funding concerns
US aid cuts threaten health outcomes and jobs
Previously, the US had allocated $8 million for LGBTQI+ initiatives in Lesotho, a move Trump had criticized as wasteful spending.
However, much of the funding goes toward HIV prevention efforts.
The cuts have sparked fears of health outcomes being set back and job losses for around 1,500 health workers.
Another group claimed that thousands of HIV-positive children and pregnant women will be left unattended.
National profile
Lesotho's economic dependence and cultural richness
Lesotho gained independence from Britain in 1966 and is a constitutional monarchy with King Letsie III as head of state and Prime Minister Sam Matekane at the helm of the government.
Despite its diamond wealth, Lesotho is economically dependent on South Africa and struggles with poverty.
Lesotho exports water and diamonds to South Africa, and garments to the US under the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA).
China has invested heavily in Lesotho's infrastructure, including the construction of its parliament.
Economic ties
Lesotho's trade relations and foreign investments
Chinese businesses are also active in the textile industry, which employs many Basotho but has been criticized for labor conditions.
The country also has tremendous renewable energy potential, particularly in hydro and solar power.
Lesotho has always maintained close ties with the United States, benefiting from diplomatic programs such as the Peace Corps. Since 1967, about 2,630 Peace Corps volunteers have worked in the country, with a concentration on health and education.
Details
Basotho nationals have taken part in US government-sponsored programs
According to the US Department of State, more than 500 Basotho nationals have taken part in US government-sponsored exchange programs such as the Fulbright and Humphrey Fellowships, the Young African Leaders Initiative, and the International Visitors Leadership Program.
Lesotho is also a member of the Southern African Customs Union (SACU), which has a cooperative arrangement with the United States on customs, trade facilitation, and investment promotion.
International connections
Starlink's bid for internet license and Prince Harry's ties
Starlink has applied for an internet service license in Lesotho, hoping to improve connectivity, AP reported.
It is one of several African countries where it is attempting to secure contracts. The Lesotho Communications Authority said last month that it had received Starlink's request for a 10-year license.
Britain's Prince Harry also has strong ties to Lesotho through his charity work with Sentebale, supporting children affected by HIV/AIDS.
The Duke of Sussex even has a Sesotho nickname: Mohale, which means "warrior."