Herd Boys

A “herd boy” is a term in Lesotho used for a boy or man whose job is to take after the animal herds – mostly cattle, but also sheep and goats. They go out in the fields and mountains, sometimes for days at a time, with the animals and watch over them as they graze. Typical herd boy attire is a kupahead (knitted ski mask), gum boots (galoshes), and a dirty worn out khobo (big traditional blanket that for men, is wrapped around over the shoulder). You can see them often in the rural areas where many PCV’s live.

Herd boys are an essential part of the society because most families keep herd animals as a form of wealth. The bride price still exists, so if two people want to get married, their families barter over cattle and other animals to make the “transaction”.

Being a herd boy is not an easy life. They have no families or are from very poor families. They are not well educated, oftentimes, they have no choice in becoming a herd boy. Once they become herd boys, they are cast out as pariahs of society. I’ve been told to watch out for herd boys, that they will steal from me or rape me, and that they drink and smoke dagga (weed). I have even been told that they have sex with their animals. These stereotypes are very ingrained within Basotho culture. I have talked to many Basotho who know that they should treat people fairly and kindly, but when it comes to herd boys, those sentiments don’t apply.

The interactions that I have had with herd boys has been limited to a friendly greeting upon my passing. They usually mind their own business and don’t harass me like the drunk men in town.

In general, I don’t have a lot of information about herd boys, but I do believe that every person should be given a chance that many Basotho are deprived of. And for me, the herd boys make up a part of the painful beauty that I see in Lesotho.

(These photos were taken over a year ago right before PCV’s were evacuated from Lesotho)