41 Facts About Eswatini (fmr. “Swaziland”)

Eswatini is located in Southern Africa.

Eswatini, formerly known as Swaziland, is a landlocked country bordered by South Africa to the west and Mozambique to the east.

The country gained independence from British colonial rule in 1968.

After being under British protection since the late 19th century, Swaziland achieved full independence in 1968 and was later renamed Eswatini in 2018.

Eswatini is one of the last remaining absolute monarchies in the world.

Under the leadership of King Mswati III, Eswatini has a monarchial system of governance where the king has ultimate authority over the government.

The official language of Eswatini is Swazi, but English is widely spoken.

Swazi, also known as siSwati, is the national language of Eswatini. However, English is commonly used for official and educational purposes.

Eswatini is known for its colorful cultural festivals.

The country celebrates several traditional festivals throughout the year, including the internationally renowned Umhlanga Reed Dance and Incwala ceremonies.

Eswatini has a diverse and rich wildlife population.

The country is home to an array of wildlife, including elephants, rhinos, lions, zebras, and various antelope species, making it a popular destination for wildlife enthusiasts.

The economy of Eswatini is largely dependent on agriculture.

Agriculture, particularly subsistence farming, plays a significant role in the country’s economy, with crops such as sugar cane, maize, and citrus fruits being major contributors.

Eswatini is known for its exquisite handicrafts.

The country is renowned for its skilled artisans who create beautiful handmade crafts, including intricate woodcarvings, colorful woven baskets, and traditional jewelry.

The currency of Eswatini is the Lilangeni (SZL).

Eswatini’s currency is named after King Mswati II and is tied to the South African Rand at a 1:1 exchange rate.

Eswatini has a high prevalence of HIV/AIDS.

Like many countries in sub-Saharan Africa, Eswatini faces a significant HIV/AIDS epidemic, with one of the highest infection rates in the world.

The country is known for its stunning natural landscapes.

Eswatini boasts breathtaking scenery, including the picturesque Ezulwini Valley, rolling hills, lush forests, and the majestic Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary.

The national dish of Eswatini is called “Sishwala.”

Sishwala is a traditional porridge made from maize meal and served with various accompanying relishes, such as stewed meat, vegetables, or beans.

Eswatini has a rich cultural heritage.

The Swazi people take pride in their cultural traditions, which include vibrant music, dance, and storytelling, all of which play a significant role in their daily lives.

Eswatini is home to the oldest mine in the world.

The Ngwenya Mine, located in western Eswatini, has been in operation for over 43,000 years and is known for its deposits of iron ore.

The country has a well-preserved monarchy.

Eswatini’s monarchy holds a central position in the country’s governance and culture, with the king being highly revered and respected by the Swazi people.

Eswatini is a member of the Commonwealth.

Eswatini joined the Commonwealth of Nations, a political association of former British colonies, in 1968 after gaining independence from British rule.

The country has a small but growing tourism industry.

With its stunning landscapes, wildlife, cultural festivals, and warm hospitality, Eswatini is attracting an increasing number of tourists from around the world.

Eswatini is known for its unique traditional attire.

The traditional attire in Eswatini consists of vibrant, colorful fabrics, with women often wearing beaded necklaces and men donning a distinctive straw hat called “emahiya.

The nation celebrates Independence Day on September 6th.

Every year, Eswatini commemorates its independence from British rule with various festivities, including parades, concerts, and cultural performances.

Eswatini has a Royal Kraal, which is a traditional royal residence.

The Lobamba Royal Kraal serves as the official residence of the king and is where important cultural ceremonies and events take place.

The country has a high prevalence of traditional healers.

Traditional healers, known as “sangomas” or “inyanga,” hold significant influence in Eswatini, as many people turn to them for spiritual and medicinal guidance.

Eswatini has a rich oral storytelling tradition.

The Swazi people pass down their history and cultural values through storytelling, with tales often involving moral lessons and mythical creatures.

The country has a low crime rate compared to its neighboring countries.

Eswatini is generally considered a safe destination for travelers, with a relatively low crime rate compared to other countries in the region.

Eswatini has a diverse music scene.

The country is known for its traditional music, called “Siswati,” as well as modern genres like hip-hop, gospel, and reggae.

The national animal of Eswatini is the lion.

Lions symbolize royalty and strength in Eswatini, and they are often featured in traditional dances and cultural ceremonies.

Eswatini has a unique dual legal system.

The country operates under both a common law system inherited from British colonial rule and a traditional Swazi law system known as “Swazi Customary Law.”

The country has a high population density.

Despite its small size, Eswatini has a relatively high population density, with a significant portion of the population residing in rural areas.

The flag of Eswatini features traditional Swazi symbols.

The flag consists of horizontal stripes of blue, yellow, and green, with a traditional Swazi shield and spear at the center.

Eswatini is known for its strong cultural emphasis on respect.

The Swazi culture places great importance on respecting elders, authority figures, and cultural traditions, which is deeply ingrained in the daily lives of Swazi people.

The official religion of Eswatini is Christianity.

The majority of the population in Eswatini practices Christianity, with various denominations represented throughout the country.

Eswatini has a national football team.

The Eswatini national football team, nicknamed “Sihlangu Semnikati” (The Kings Shield), represents the country in international football tournaments.

The country has a traditional subsistence farming system.

Agriculture in Eswatini largely revolves around subsistence farming, where households cultivate crops primarily for their own consumption.

Eswatini has a unique system of age-grouping called “lijezi.”

“Lijezi” is a system that groups people according to their age, where each group has specific responsibilities and obligations within the community.

The country has a strong presence of Swazi cultural dances.

Traditional dances, such as the “Sibhaca” and “Umhlanga,” are an integral part of Swazi culture, often performed during festivals and celebratory events.

Eswatini has a varied cuisine.

The local cuisine in Eswatini includes dishes such as “bobotie” (a spiced meat dish), “samp and beans” (a staple dish made with maize and beans), and “bunnychow” (a South African fast food dish).

The country has a lower life expectancy compared to global averages.

Eswatini has a relatively lower life expectancy due to factors such as high HIV/AIDS prevalence, limited healthcare resources, and socio-economic challenges.

Eswatini has one of the highest inequality rates in the world.

The distribution of wealth and resources in Eswatini is characterized by significant inequality, with a small portion of the population holding a large portion of the country’s wealth.

Eswatini has a rich tradition of beadwork.

Swazi beadwork is known for its intricate craftsmanship and vibrant colors, with beads often used to create jewelry, clothing accessories, and decorative items.

The country has a growing film industry.

Eswatini’s film industry is slowly gaining recognition, with several local filmmakers producing films that highlight Swazi culture, history, and social issues.

Eswatini has a unique form of traditional architecture.

The traditional Swazi homestead, called “lihlopha,” consists of circular huts, a central cattle byre, and a surrounding wooden palisade fence.

Eswatini is striving towards sustainable development.

The government of Eswatini has placed a strong emphasis on sustainable development, aiming to balance economic growth with environmental conservation and social well-being.

Conclusion

Eswatini, formerly known as Swaziland, is a fascinating country with a rich cultural heritage, stunning landscapes, and a vibrant community. From its traditional festivals and wildlife to its unique cuisine and traditional crafts, Eswatini offers a glimpse into the beauty and diversity of Southern Africa. Despite facing challenges such as HIV/AIDS and inequality, the country is actively working towards sustainable development and a brighter future. Experience the magic of Eswatini and discover the wonders this captivating nation has to offer.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Eswatini, formerly known as Swaziland, is a fascinating country with a rich cultural heritage and breathtaking natural beauty. From its traditional Swazi ceremonies to its diverse wildlife and stunning landscapes, Eswatini offers visitors a unique and unforgettable experience.

With its stable economy, friendly people, and commitment to preserving its cultural identity, Eswatini continues to grow as a popular tourist destination. Whether you’re exploring the charming capital city of Mbabane, embarking on a safari in one of the country’s many game reserves, or immersing yourself in Swazi traditions, Eswatini has something for everyone.

As Eswatini continues to evolve and embrace its future while honoring its past, there’s no doubt that this little kingdom will continue to captivate and enchant travelers from around the world.

FAQs

1. Is Eswatini a safe country to visit?

Eswatini is generally considered a safe country to visit. However, it’s always important to take basic safety precautions, such as avoiding isolated areas at night and keeping an eye on your belongings.

2. What is the official language of Eswatini?

The official languages of Eswatini are Swazi and English. English is widely spoken and understood, particularly in urban areas and tourist destinations.

3. Do I need a visa to visit Eswatini?

Visa requirements for Eswatini vary depending on your country of citizenship. It’s best to check with the nearest Eswatini embassy or consulate for the most up-to-date information regarding visa requirements.

4. What is the best time to visit Eswatini?

The best time to visit Eswatini is during the dry season, which runs from May to October. The weather is pleasant, and wildlife viewing is at its best during this time. However, if you’re interested in attending traditional Swazi ceremonies, it’s best to plan your visit around the major cultural events.

5. What currency is used in Eswatini?

The currency used in Eswatini is the Swazi Lilangeni (SZL). South African Rand (ZAR) is also widely accepted. It’s recommended to carry some cash, as credit cards may not be accepted in all establishments.