Majority of Basotho decry poor living conditions
. . . survey puts a damper on bicentennial milestone
MOSA MAOENG
MASERU – As Lesotho celebrates 200 years of its existence more than three-quarters (77%) of citizens see the country’s economic conditions and their own living situations as “fairly bad” or “very bad.”
This sobering reality, revealed by a recent Afrobarometer survey, comes as Basotho reflect on their identity and the challenges that continue to plague the Kingdom.
The Afrobarometer survey, conducted by Advision Lesotho, was unveiled at an event where citizens, scholars, and policymakers gathered to deliberate on the findings.
This year’s survey marks a poignant moment in Basotho history, capturing the voices of people as they navigate the complexities of nationhood, two centuries after King Moshoeshoe I laid the foundation of the Basotho nation in 1824.
In her detailed presentation, Advision Lesotho National Investigator, Libuseng Malephane, explained that Lesotho is classified as a lower middle-income country by the World Bank in 2024, yet remains one of the least developed nations globally.
With a low ranking on the Human Development Index, the report paints a bleak picture of widespread poverty, unemployment, and economic stagnation.
“Lesotho is facing a reality where the majority of Basotho are struggling to make ends meet,” Malephane said.
One of the most striking elements of the report is the Afrobarometer’s Lived Poverty Index. This metric assesses the frequency with which respondents go without five basic necessities: food, water, medical care, cooking fuel, and a cash income. The findings were disheartening.
About six in 10 Basotho experienced moderate (37%) or high (22%) levels of lived poverty in the past year. A mere five percent of Basotho reported experiencing no poverty at all.
“This stark reality is reflected in Basotho’s overall dissatisfaction with current economic conditions,” Malephane showed, adding: “It is no surprise that Basotho are giving their government poor ratings on economic management. Nearly six in 10 (57%) believe the government is doing fairly badly in handling the economy and reducing inequality.”
These statistics are not just numbers — they represent the daily struggles of a people grappling with poverty, inequality, and limited opportunities.
The government’s performance on improving the living standards of the poor is viewed with deep skepticism, as 68 percent of Basotho believe the government is doing a poor job in this area.
As the nation reflects on its 200-year journey, the report also highlights the diminishing trust in current political leaders compared to traditional and religious leaders.
While Basotho continue to express pride in their nationality and loyalty to their King, a direct descendant of King Moshoeshoe I, there is a growing concern about the direction the country is taking.
Senate Chief Research Officer, Teboho Sekese raised questions about the understanding Basotho have of their governance structures, particularly the roles of Parliament and the Senate. “It is imperative that citizens are clear on who holds responsibility in governance,” Sekese urged.
He said criticism should be well-directed to avoid generalisations that undermine effective scrutiny of institutions. During the event, a lecturer from the National University of Lesotho’s (NUL) Historical Studies Department offered a poignant reflection on the historical resilience of Basotho.
He recounted how, even under colonial rule from 1868 to 1966, Basotho maintained their identity and endured the economic hardships and global conflicts, such as the two World Wars, in which Basotho played a role. “In 1966, when Lesotho gained independence, it was a moment of hope,” the lecturer noted.
“However, we have faced challenges ever since — ranging from political instability and brutal killings to youth unemployment, substance abuse, and hunger. As we celebrate 200 years, our hope is to return to Moshoeshoe I’s guiding principles of wisdom, bravery, commitment, and persistence.”
The lecturer’s words echoed a call for unity and a return to the values that built the Basotho nation, reminding attendees that these challenges are not insurmountable.
With strong leadership and a recommitment to Moshoeshoe’s legacy, there is hope that Lesotho can overcome the hurdles it faces today. The Afrobarometer team in Lesotho, led by Advision Lesotho, conducted a nationally representative survey of 1,200 adult Basotho in March 2024.
The sample was drawn from all 10 districts, covering both urban and rural areas. The survey was carefully balanced in terms of gender, with 49 percent of respondents being male and 51 percent female.
This survey continues a tradition of research in Lesotho, with previous Afrobarometer surveys conducted in 2000, 2002, 2005, 2008, 2012, 2014, 2017, 2020, and 2022.
As Basotho navigate the complexities of the 21st century, the insights provided by these surveys offer valuable guidance to policymakers and leaders aiming to improve the lives of the people.
Coming at this juncture when Lesotho marks 200 years of nationhood, the findings of the Afrobarometer survey serve as both a reflection and a call to action.
The people of Lesotho have endured countless challenges, and their resilience has been the foundation of the Basotho nation. Yet, the economic struggles highlighted in this report underscore the urgent need for change.
The path forward may be difficult, but with the spirit of Moshoeshoe I as a guiding light, there is hope that the next 200 years could bring prosperity and stability to the Kingdom.
The celebration of Lesotho’s bicentennial is a moment to honour the past while acknowledging the work that lies ahead. It is a time for leaders to listen to the voices of their people and to act with the wisdom and courage that has defined the Basotho nation for two centuries.
