Steinmeier Wraps Up Africa Tour with Historic Lesotho Visit

German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier has concluded his four-day African tour with a landmark visit to Lesotho, marking the first time a German president has traveled to the mountainous Southern African nation.

Steinmeier’s visit to Lesotho on Saturday followed an invitation from King Letsie III, extended during the monarch’s 2023 visit to Berlin.

The trip included high-level discussions with South African President Cyril Ramaphosa in Pretoria on Friday, focusing on bilateral relations and regional cooperation.

Lesotho, an enclave entirely surrounded by South Africa, gained independence from the United Kingdom in 1966. However, it has since grappled with political instability, widespread corruption, and under-resourced public services. Analysts highlight that reforms to address these issues are often stymied by political elites.

The nation’s rugged terrain leaves many villages accessible only by foot or horseback, while its economy remains heavily reliant on South Africa. For decades, Lesotho’s citizens have sought employment across the border, particularly in mining.

Lesotho’s economy is largely driven by agriculture, textile exports, diamond mining, and water sales to South Africa, but challenges persist in ensuring stability and sustainable growth.

Steinmeier’s historic visit underscores Germany’s interest in fostering stronger ties with African nations, particularly those with untapped economic and diplomatic potential.