**Lesotho: Unearthing the Hidden Jewel of Southern Africa**

Despite being overshadowed by its neighbor, Lesotho boasts unique features and significant cultural heritage.

The world knows little about Lesotho, a mountainous country nestled entirely within South Africa, famously dubbed the "Kingdom in the Sky." US President Donald Trump's dismissal of the nation spurred interest in its rich tapestry of culture, geography, and history. Here are nine intriguing aspects of this overlooked nation:

1. **The Kingdom in the Sky**
Lesotho is primarily composed of highland areas, with many remote villages only accessible by horseback, foot, or light aircraft. It is the only independent nation globally that exists entirely over 1,000 meters (3,281 ft) above sea level; its lowest point is still at an elevation of 1,400 meters.

2. **Challenging Air Travel**
The Matekane Airstrip is renowned for its treacherous landing conditions, with a short runway and steep drops at both ends. Described as akin to a bird learning to fly, it reflects the rugged terrain characteristic of the region.

3. **Surrounded by South Africa**
This small country is completely encircled by South Africa, separated by formidable mountain ranges that provide natural barriers. The limited agricultural land has led many Basotho to migrate for work opportunities in South Africa, where they significantly contribute to the labor force.

4. **Cultural Ties with South Africa**
The cultural and linguistic links between Lesotho and South Africa are strong; Sesotho, spoken by the Basotho people, is among South Africa's 11 official languages.

5. **Water: The White Gold**
Despite the scarce natural resources in Lesotho's highlands, its most precious asset is its water, humorously dubbed 'white gold.' Lesotho supplies water to South Africa, with diamonds also being a key export.

6. **Africa's Highest Ski Resort**
Lesotho is home to the highest ski resort in sub-Saharan Africa, Afriski, positioned at 3,222 meters above sea level. This unique destination attracts adventurers looking for snow sports in a region many wouldn't typically associate with skiing.

7. **The Basotho Identity**
The Basotho people have a rich cultural heritage, symbolized by their distinctive blankets and traditional conical hats, known as mokorotlo. These items serve as expressions of identity and are woven with stories from their history.

8. **HIV Challenges**
Lesotho faces a significant public health challenge, with about one in five adults living with HIV. The US government has invested nearly $1 billion to help combat this crisis, supporting various health initiatives since 2006.

9. **Support from the Royal Family**
Prince Harry's engagement in Lesotho, through his charity Sentebale, exemplifies international support for local initiatives aimed at assisting young people affected by HIV/AIDS. His personal connection to the country runs deep following his first visit as a teenager.

In addition to its cultural richness, Lesotho boasts a thriving textile industry, exporting a vast range of clothing, including jeans, to the US through favorable trade agreements. However, it also grapples with severe mental health crises, holding the highest suicide rate globally, which analysts attribute to multiple socio-economic factors.

Ultimately, Lesotho may be a small nation, but its depth of history, culture, and challenges invites a closer look from the world stage.