Our Vision is to see connected and thriving communities in Lesotho and Wales

Our purpose is to facilitate sustainable projects, partnerships and relationships which have a positive impact on communities in Lesotho and Wales.

Since 1985 Dolen Cymru has been forging friendships and partnerships between Lesotho and Wales.  Through these links we bring lives and skills together, bringing communities in Wales and Lesotho together creating momentum.

Our teachers give whole communities new tools and understanding, which they in turn share with other communities. Health professionals train health professionals who can then train others. Our specialists in sanitation guide others in better ways to maintain hygiene.  Young and old improve their skills in sport, care of the environment and their abilities to improve their communities.

Participants in our programmes gain different perspectives, different ways of thinking and different ways of doing things. They share these new approaches and skills with the schools, clinics and communities they’re based in.

Located in the south-eastern region of Africa, the Kingdom of Lesotho is surrounded on all sides by the Republic of South Africa.  All of its territory is above 1400 metres, meaning it is the country with the highest low point in the world. Many people live in in rugged, mountainous terrain, accessible only by horseback or foot. 

Lesotho is one of the poorest countries in the world. This beautiful country faces considerable economic and social problems with over half (57%) of its 2 million population living in extreme poverty. (World Bank Data) Its GDP per capita was just $1,400, in 2017, according to the IMF. This ranks it at 150 out of 186 countries.