Eswatini (Swaziland)

Africa’s Last Absolute Monarchy – Tradition Meets Transformation

Eswatini, formerly known as Swaziland, is a small landlocked country in Southern Africa, bordered by South Africa and Mozambique. Known for its monarchical governance, vibrant cultural festivals, and scenic mountains and valleys, Eswatini is Africa’s last remaining absolute monarchy, navigating between preserving its traditions and embracing modern development.

---

Formation and Historical Background

• Originally inhabited by Nguni-speaking Swazi people in the 18th century

• Became a British protectorate in 1903 after conflict with the Boers

• Achieved independence on September 6, 1968, as the Kingdom of Swaziland

• Renamed Kingdom of Eswatini in 2018 by King Mswati III to reflect pre-colonial heritage

• Maintains a traditional monarchy alongside limited democratic structures

---

Administrative Information

---

Religious Affiliation (Estimated)

---

Government and Leadership

---

Administrative Divisions (Regions)

Eswatini is divided into 4 regions, each headed by a Regional Administrator appointed by the King:

• Hhohho (Mbabane – administrative capital)

• Lubombo (Siteki)

• Manzini (Manzini – largest city)

• Shiselweni (Nhlangano)

Each region is subdivided into tinkhundla (constituencies), which serve as the primary units of local governance.

---

Local Government Structure

• Local governance is based on the Tinkhundla system, blending traditional leadership with administrative duties

• No political parties are allowed in elections; candidates run as independents

• Chiefdoms and royal councils influence rural governance and dispute resolution

---

Leadership & Governance

Eswatini follows an absolute monarchy with limited constitutional checks.
Key governance aspects include:

• Traditional leadership and monarchy central to politics

• Civil society movements advocating for greater democracy

• National Development Strategy focuses on Vision 2022, emphasizing peace, education, and health

---

Law Enforcement & Safety

• Royal Eswatini Police Service (REPS) ensures internal security

• Umbutfo Eswatini Defence Force (UEDF) handles external defense

• Some tensions exist due to calls for political reform, but tourism zones remain generally safe

---

Economy & Industry

• Main Sectors:

  • Sugarcane production and processing

  • Textiles and apparel (exports under AGOA)

  • Forestry, agriculture, and soft drink bottling

  • Tourism, services, and cross-border trade with South Africa

• GDP (2023): Approx. USD 5.6 billion

• Development goals:

  • Economic diversification

  • Rural electrification and water access

  • Improving ease of doing business

---

Education & Institutions

• Free primary education; secondary education subsidized

• Literacy rate: Around 88%

• Key institutions:

  • University of Eswatini (UNESWA)

  • Limkokwing University of Creative Technology

  • Southern Africa Nazarene University

• Issues:

  • Dropout rates in rural areas

  • Skills mismatch between graduates and job market

---

Healthcare

• Public health system covers majority of population

• Main hospitals:

  • Mbabane Government Hospital

  • Raleigh Fitkin Memorial Hospital (Manzini)

• Key challenges:

  • High HIV/AIDS prevalence

  • Maternal and child health concerns

  • Government and NGOs focus on ART access and community health awareness

---

Transport & Connectivity

• Roads: Well-paved major highways; rural access improving

• Rail: Connects with Mozambique and South African networks

• Airports:

  • King Mswati III International Airport

  • Matsapha Airport (limited domestic use)

• Bus and kombi networks serve public transport needs across the country

---

Tourism & Attractions

Natural:

• Malolotja Nature Reserve – hiking, ziplining, and wildlife

• Hlane Royal National Park – Big Five viewing

• Sibebe Rock – second-largest granite monolith in the world

• Ngwenya Glass Factory – sustainable glassmaking and crafts

Cultural:

• Umhlanga (Reed Dance) and Incwala (Kingship ceremony)

• Traditional villages, markets, and craft centers

Tourism character: Safe, scenic, and culturally immersive destination for travelers

---

Culture & Lifestyle

• Ethnic Group: Predominantly Swazi people

• Languages:

  • siSwati (cultural language of unity)

  • English (used officially and in education)

• Cuisine: Sishwala (maize porridge), stewed meat, beans, pumpkin, traditional beer

• Culture:

  • Deep respect for royalty, tradition, and family structures

  • Known for music, dance, beadwork, and ceremonial regalia

---

Summary

Eswatini stands as a unique monarchy in modern Africa, balancing centuries-old traditions with contemporary development goals. With its stunning landscapes, rich cultural identity, and efforts toward economic and social progress, Eswatini is charting its path as a proud, peaceful nation in the heart of Southern Africa.