People Lesotho has an estimated population of is 2.1 million. Most of them are of Basotho and Matabele in origin. However, many have migrated to other countries seeking work. The traditional life of the Basotho and Matabele people revolves around the village. The mountainous terrain was difficult to navigate and people used ponies. Breeding them was an important part of village life. Most of their festivals relate to the seasons of the year and life in the village. Elders were respected and the family was the most important unit. Traditional weddings were not complete without a dance called the "Ndalamo", still preserved by the Matabeles. The national language of Lesotho, Sesotho, originated with the Basotho tribe. Christians constitute about 80% of Lesotho’s population. The other 20% still follow the traditional Animist beliefs.