Eswatini (fmr. "Swaziland")

A Kingdom of Tradition and Transition in Southern Africa

📍 Geographic Location and Landscape

Eswatini, formerly known as Swaziland, is a small but strikingly diverse country located in Southern Africa. It is landlocked, bordered by South Africa to the west, north, and south, and Mozambique to the east. Despite its modest size, Eswatini boasts stunning geographic contrasts, from lush mountains in the west to savannahs in the east, and is home to rich biodiversity and scenic reserves. Its compact geography makes it one of the few countries where you can experience drastically different landscapes within hours of travel.

📜 Brief Historical Background

The history of Eswatini is steeped in royal legacy and indigenous resilience. The Swazi people trace their origins to the Nguni tribes of Central Africa, migrating southwards in the 15th and 16th centuries. By the mid-18th century, the Dlamini royal dynasty unified various clans under the Swazi identity. During the colonial era, Eswatini became a British protectorate, retaining a unique level of internal autonomy. The nation gained full independence in 1968, and in 2018, King Mswati III renamed the country from Swaziland to Eswatini — meaning “land of the Swazis” — to assert national identity and shed colonial naming conventions.

🌐 Global Significance

Though one of Africa’s smallest nations, Eswatini holds a distinct place on the global stage. It is one of the last remaining absolute monarchies in the world, led by King Mswati III, whose influence shapes both domestic and foreign policy. Eswatini plays a strategic role in regional diplomacy through organizations like the Southern African Development Community (SADC) and maintains strong ties with neighboring powers. Additionally, its rich cultural heritage, including vibrant festivals like Umhlanga (Reed Dance) and Incwala (Kingship Ceremony), draws international visitors and scholars interested in traditional African governance, dance, and spirituality.

Eswatini is a nation where ancient customs and modern aspirations coexist. From royal pageantry to wildlife safaris, and from traditional homesteads to urban centers like Mbabane and Manzini, it offers a unique perspective on Southern Africa's cultural and political evolution.

Discover the hidden gems of Africa's last absolute monarchy

Eswatini, though small in size, is a country full of vibrant traditions, unique governance, and rich biodiversity. Nestled between South Africa and Mozambique, it offers a fascinating blend of old-world customs and modern ambitions. Here are 25 intriguing and lesser-known facts about this culturally rich nation.

🌍 Geography and Nature

1. One of Africa’s Smallest Countries
Eswatini is just 17,364 square kilometers, making it smaller than Kuwait, yet incredibly diverse in geography and ecosystems.

2. Four Distinct Geographical Regions
The country has four major regions: Highveld, Middleveld, Lowveld, and the Lubombo Plateau, each with unique climate and vegetation.

3. Home to Africa’s Oldest Mine
The Ngwenya Mine, located in Eswatini, is considered the world’s oldest known mine, dating back 43,000 years and used for red ochre extraction.

4. Biodiversity Hotspot
Despite its size, Eswatini hosts over 500 bird species, 107 mammal species, and 3,500 plant species, many found in Hlane Royal National Park and Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary.

5. No Natural Lakes, But Many Rivers
Eswatini has no natural lakes, but several rivers such as the Great Usutu and Mbuluzi that support both agriculture and hydroelectric power.

🏛️ Politics and Governance

6. Last Absolute Monarchy in Africa
Eswatini is one of the few remaining absolute monarchies in the world, where the king holds supreme executive, legislative, and judicial powers.

7. Dual System of Governance
The country practices a dual political system, combining modern government structures with traditional Swazi law and custom.

8. A King with 15+ Wives
King Mswati III, who ascended the throne in 1986, is known for having multiple wives, following the Swazi royal tradition.

9. Annual Parliament Opened by Ritual
Each year, the opening of Eswatini’s Parliament is marked by a traditional ceremony led by the king, merging modern politics with culture.

10. Constitution Recognizes Customary Law
The 2005 constitution of Eswatini recognizes customary law as equally important as civil law, giving traditional leaders legal authority.

🎭 Culture and Traditions

11. The Famous Umhlanga Reed Dance
Held annually, Umhlanga is a week-long celebration where thousands of young Swazi women dance before the king in a cultural expression of purity and national pride.

12. Incwala — The Ceremony of Kingship
One of Africa’s most sacred ceremonies, Incwala celebrates the harvest and renewal of royal power, involving rituals that span several weeks.

13. Traditional Clothing is Common
Swazi people often wear traditional attire — like Emahiya and Lihiya — not just for ceremonies but also in daily rural life.

14. Polygamy is Culturally Accepted
Polygamy is a cultural norm, particularly among royal and traditional leaders, with deep roots in Swazi customs.

15. Oral History Plays a Central Role
Eswatini preserves its past through oral storytelling, music, and dance — an essential way of passing on tribal identity and history.

📚 Society and Education

16. Free Primary Education
Since 2010, Eswatini has offered free primary education, aiming to improve literacy and expand educational access.

17. High HIV Awareness Programs
Though Eswatini has one of the highest HIV rates globally, it has made significant progress with awareness campaigns and treatment programs.

18. A Youthful Population
Over 60% of Eswatini’s population is under 25 years old, making youth development and employment key national priorities.

19. Strong Handicraft Industry
Swazi crafts like basket weaving, candle making, and beadwork are world-renowned and support local economies and tourism.

20. SiSwati Language and English Are Both Official
Both SiSwati (a Bantu language) and English are official languages, used in government, schools, and daily life.

🌐 Economy and Global Relations

21. Currency Pegged to the South African Rand
The Lilangeni (SZL) is Eswatini’s currency, but it is pegged 1:1 with the South African Rand, which is also accepted nationwide.

22. Dependent on South African Economy
Due to its small size and location, Eswatini is highly integrated with South Africa economically, relying on it for trade and labor movement.

23. Sugar Is a Major Export
Sugar production is one of Eswatini’s main industries, with sugarcane fields dominating parts of the Lowveld region.

24. Tourism Grows Through Cultural Heritage
While not as globally famous as its neighbors, Eswatini attracts visitors for its wildlife, cultural festivals, and peaceful atmosphere.

25. Member of Multiple Global Organizations
Eswatini is an active member of the African Union (AU), United Nations (UN), Southern African Development Community (SADC), and Commonwealth, playing a part in regional and global diplomacy.