Today, when walking through Maseru with its population of around 330,760, a fascinating blend of the traditional and the modern can be witnessed. Business professionals in suits share the pavement with shepherds draped in the iconic Basotho blanket, a symbol of national identity worn for warmth and status. The mokorotlo, a conical straw hat whose shape is inspired by the Qiloane mountain, is another powerful cultural symbol, its form even immortalised in the architecture of a prominent local building. While Christianity is the dominant religion, it is often synthesised with traditional beliefs and customs. This social tapestry makes Maseru a city that feels both authentically African and progressively global.

As Lesotho's capital, Maseru's economic profile is diverse, anchored by several key sectors. The government is the largest employer, with all major ministries, agencies, and foreign embassies headquartered here. This creates a stable, salaried middle class that drives much of the city's formal consumer economy. Commerce and retail are highly visible. The main thoroughfare, Kingsway, is lined with banks, shops, and corporate offices. In recent years, modern shopping malls have emerged, offering international brands and services. However, this formal economy exists alongside a bustling informal sector. Vibrant street markets are everywhere, with vendors selling everything from fresh produce and grilled maize to mobile phone airtime and handcrafted goods.