Trump’s Controversial Remarks Ignite Outrage in Lesotho: Why the Nation Matters

Lesotho’s foreign minister, Lejone Mpotjoane, expressed shock and disappointment after U.S. President Donald Trump referred to the country as unknown during a congressional speech. Mpotjoane invited Trump to visit Lesotho, emphasizing its significance.

Trump mentioned Lesotho while discussing foreign spending cuts, singling out eight million dollars intended for LGBTQI+ programs. His comment drew laughter from Congress, which left Mpotjoane feeling insulted.

“I’m really shocked that my country can be referred to like that by the head of state,” Mpotjoane told Reuters. He highlighted that Lesotho, with its population of around two million, is a beautiful mountainous nation often called The Kingdom in the Sky.

Mpotjoane described Lesotho as unique and significant, extending an invitation to Trump and the world to visit. He acknowledged that while some U.S. funding supported LGBTQI+ initiatives, the U.S. also contributed vital funds to Lesotho’s health and agriculture sectors.

Trump’s administration has drastically reduced foreign aid as part of the “America First” policy. Mpotjoane noted that Lesotho is feeling the effects of these budget cuts, especially in the health sector, which has relied heavily on foreign support. However, the government is exploring ways to become more self-sufficient.

“The president’s decision to cut aid is his prerogative,” Mpotjoane said. “We must accept that. Nonetheless, it is unfortunate to hear my country spoken of in such a manner.”