In the mountain kingdom of Lesotho, boys as young as five spend months on end tending cattle in the isolation of remote highland country. For the young, becoming a herd boy is a cultural obligation in Lesotho society, a practice which leaves many children deprived of an education.The isolation experienced by young herd boys in Lesotho has profound effects on their social and emotional development. Spending extended periods in the remote mountains, often alone or with minimal interaction with peers, these boys miss out on crucial opportunities for socialisation. This isolation can lead to a lack of social skills, making it difficult for them to communicate effectively, build relationships, and integrate into broader society later in life. The absence of regular schooling further compounds the issue, as they are deprived of structured environments where social skills are typically nurtured. This can result in feelings of loneliness, low self-esteem, and even depression.Â
