Lesotho’s foreign minister, Lejone Mpotjoane, has slammed U.S. President Donald Trump for his dismissive remark about the African nation, calling it “quite insulting” and extending an invitation for him to visit.
Trump, while addressing Congress on Tuesday evening, criticized foreign aid spending and singled out an $8 million program supporting LGBTQI+ rights in Lesotho, stating, “Eight million dollars to promote LGBTQI+ in the African nation of Lesotho, which nobody has ever heard of.” His remark was met with laughter from lawmakers.
Mpotjoane responded with shock and disappointment, saying, “I’m really shocked that my country can be referred to like that by the head of state.” He emphasized Lesotho’s unique place in the world, adding, “Lesotho is such a significant and unique country. I would be happy to invite the president, as well as the rest of the world, to come to Lesotho.”
Lesotho, often called “The Kingdom in the Sky” due to its high-altitude mountainous terrain, is a sovereign nation entirely surrounded by South Africa. With a population of about two million, it boasts a rich history, stunning landscapes, and a distinct cultural identity.
While some U.S. aid programs in Lesotho support LGBTQ+ rights, the U.S. has also played a crucial role in funding the country’s healthcare and agriculture sectors. Mpotjoane acknowledged the impact of Trump’s budget cuts on Lesotho’s health sector but took issue with the way the former president belittled the country.
“The decision by the president to cut the aid… it is (his) prerogative to do that,” Mpotjoane said. “We have to accept that. But to refer to my country like that, it is quite unfortunate.”
Trump’s statement reinforces a pattern of dismissive attitudes toward African nations, often reducing them to insignificance in global discussions. However, Lesotho’s foreign minister made it clear that his country will not be belittled.
Mpotjoane’s invitation stands: if Trump and the world truly don’t know Lesotho, perhaps it’s time they paid a visit.
