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Lesotho Reacts to Trump’s Comments on Global Standing
The government of Lesotho has expressed surprise and disappointment following remarks made by US President Donald Trump, who suggested that “nobody has ever heard of” the southern African nation. This comment was made during his address to the US Congress, where he discussed budget cuts to what he deemed unnecessary spending.
In his speech, Trump specifically referenced eight million dollars allocated for LGBTQI+ initiatives in Lesotho, which led to laughter among some lawmakers. The remark has raised concerns within the Lesotho government regarding its international recognition and relations with the United States.
A representative from the Lesotho foreign affairs ministry responded, emphasizing that the country enjoys “warm and cordial” diplomatic ties with the US. Lesotho is notably a significant beneficiary of the African Growth and Opportunity Act (Agoa), which aims to enhance trade access for certain African nations to stimulate economic progress.
According to US trade statistics, the bilateral trade between Lesotho and the United States amounted to approximately $240 million (£187 million) in 2024, predominantly involving textiles and clothing exports from Lesotho to the US.
Lejone Mpotjoane, Lesotho’s Foreign Affairs Minister, articulated his shock at Trump’s assertion, pointing out that Lesotho is a recognized member of the United Nations and other international organizations, and hosts a permanent US diplomatic mission in its capital, Maseru.
“It is quite surprising to hear a head of state use such language regarding another sovereign nation,” Mpotjoane noted, adding that the perception of Lesotho as an obscure country is misleading given its active participation in international affairs.
Officials suggest that Trump’s comments were made without careful consideration and as part of broader political rhetoric, describing them as “uncalled-for” in light of the established friendly relations between the two countries. Kutloano Pheko, the foreign affairs spokesperson, reaffirmed the strength of ties, highlighting the US embassy in Maseru and Lesotho’s own diplomatic presence in Washington, D.C.
Pheko was unable to provide clarification on the funding directed towards LGBTQ organizations, indicating that those organizations would have the best insights on that matter. However, Mpotjoane acknowledged that Lesotho has been impacted by Trump’s administration’s recent decision to suspend aid funding globally, affecting various sectors, including health.
The decision to end financial support through the President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (Pepfar) has created uncertainty for many non-governmental organizations that relied on these funds, especially in health programs targeting tuberculosis and HIV. Pepfar, initiated in 2003 under President George W. Bush, has been crucial in providing essential health services in countries like Lesotho. The health ministry of the country had previously noted the significant role of Pepfar funding in supporting critical health initiatives.
Despite the challenges posed by the funding cuts, Mpotjoane acknowledged the US government’s right to alter its aid policies, stating, “it is the US’s prerogative to cut aid if they want to.” This comment reflects a cautious diplomatic stance, seeking to maintain good relations despite the hurdles presented by shifting foreign aid dynamics.
Source
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