The Lesotho royal family is the ruling family of the Kingdom of Lesotho, a landlocked country in Southern Africa. The current king, Letsie III, has been on the throne since 1997, following the death of his father, King Moshoeshoe II. The royal family plays a significant role in the cultural and political life of the nation, although Lesotho is a constitutional monarchy. The royal family is descended from Moshoeshoe I, the founder of the Basotho nation in the early 19th century. The family is involved in various charitable activities and promotes the preservation of Basotho culture and traditions. The monarchy is respected by many Basotho people, who view it as a symbol of national identity.