1. State of NWFP Statistics in the Country

The statistics relating to the NWFP at national level in Lesotho is not properly kept despite the crucial role which some of them play for the rural communities.

Scenic beauty of the country is a major asset for tourism. The country is rich in historic relics ranging from Stone Age cultures through the era of the Bushmen with their cave paintings, to the founding of the Nation over 160 years ago. These historic reminders remain, though threatened through neglect and vandalism. The country’s wildlife, which was once abundant in numbers and species, has dwindled to a poor remnant today.

Floral diversity is being progressively reduced, primarily by overgrazing and indiscriminate burning and cutting of grass for the production of the famous Basotho hats. Thatching of the hats, production of the brooms which are unique to Lesotho and the unprecedented collection of medical herbs and various endangered grass species also contributes to the reduction of this floral diversity.

No studies have been carried out to quantify the rate at which the products are diminishing and indeed, the role, which they play to the nation either culturally, socially or economically.