Nestled in the heart of Southern Africa, Eswatini is a land of rich traditions, stunning landscapes, and vibrant cultures.
Often overshadowed by its larger neighbors, this small kingdom boasts a wealth of intriguing facts that reveal its unique identity and heritage.
From its status as one of the last remaining absolute monarchies in the world to its breathtaking natural beauty and diverse wildlife, Eswatini offers a treasure trove of knowledge waiting to be uncovered.
In this article, we will delve into some of the most fascinating aspects of Eswatini, showcasing why this enchanting nation deserves a spot on every travel enthusiast’s radar.
History of Eswatini
Eswatini’s history is marked by the migration of Khoisan hunter-gatherers, followed by Nguni-speaking peoples during the Bantu migrations.
The Swazi nation emerged in the 18th century under King Ngwane III, consolidating clans into a unified kingdom.
European colonial influence began in the 19th century, with Swaziland becoming a British protectorate in 1903.
Independence was achieved on September 6, 1968, under King Sobhuza II.
In 2018, King Mswati III renamed the country from Swaziland to Eswatini, meaning “land of the Swazis,” to commemorate its 50th anniversary of independence.
With that said let’s have a look at some interesting facts about Eswatini;
1. Eswatini is a small, landlocked country in Southern Africa, bordered by South Africa and Mozambique.
2. The country is divided into four geographical regions based on elevation: Highveld, Middleveld, Lowveld, and Lubombo.
3. Eswatini has a subtropical climate, with hot, rainy summers and cool, dry winters. The country experiences steep temperature and precipitation gradients from west to east.
4. The Lebombo Mountains run along the eastern border with Mozambique, while the western border lies on the edge of an escarpment.
5. Eswatini is the last absolute monarchy in Africa, with King Mswati III as the current ruler.
6. The Swazi nation emerged in the 18th century under King Ngwane III, consolidating clans into a unified kingdom.
7. Eswatini gained independence from Britain on September 6, 1968, and was known as Swaziland until 2018 when King Mswati III renamed it to Eswatini.
8. The Swazi people have a rich cultural heritage, with vibrant music, dance, and storytelling playing a significant role in their daily lives.
9. Traditional attire in Eswatini consists of colorful fabrics, with women often wearing beaded necklaces and men donning a distinctive straw hat called “emahiya”.
10. The Swazi people have a strong oral storytelling tradition, passing down their history and cultural values through tales involving moral lessons and mythical creatures.
11. Eswatini has a unique dual legal system, operating under both a common law system inherited from British colonial rule and a traditional Swazi law system known as “Swazi Customary Law”.
12. Eswatini has a population of approximately 1.2 million people, with the Swazi ethnic group making up over 80% of the population.
13. The official languages are Swati (Swazi) and English, with Swati being the native language of the Swazi people.
14. Christianity is the dominant religion in Eswatini, with the majority of the population belonging to Protestant and Roman Catholic churches.
15. Agriculture, particularly subsistence farming, plays a significant role in Eswatini’s economy, with crops such as sugar cane, maize, and citrus fruits being major contributors.
16. The currency of Eswatini is the Lilangeni (SZL), which is tied to the South African Rand at a 1:1 exchange rate.
17. Eswatini has a high prevalence of HIV/AIDS, with one of the highest infection rates in the world.
18. Eswatini is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including elephants, rhinos, lions, zebras, and various antelope species.
19. The country is a safe haven for both the white and black rhino populations, which are critically endangered.
20. Eswatini is progressively establishing itself as an eco-tourism destination, focusing on sustainable tourism initiatives to minimize environmental impact.
21. The Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Eswatini, offering visitors the opportunity to observe wildlife in a natural setting.
22. Eswatini is renowned for its skilled artisans who create beautiful handicrafts, including intricate woodcarvings, colorful woven baskets, and traditional jewelry.
23. The country’s artisans are particularly known for their high-quality, woven baskets made from lutindzi grass, which are sown in intricate designs and vibrant colors.
24. Local markets and cooperatives support the work of Eswatini’s artisans, serving as both a source of income for many families and a method for cultural preservation.
25. The annual Bushfire Festival not only contributes to the celebration of Swazi arts but also helps foster an appreciation for the arts in the broader Southern African region.
26. Eswatini has sent athletes to the Summer Olympics since 1972 but is yet to win a medal.
27. The country has won medals in boxing and marathon at the Commonwealth Games.
28. Team sports popular in Eswatini include football, cricket, and rugby union.
29. The Somhlolo National Stadium is the largest sporting venue in the country.
30. Eswatini is home to the oldest mine in the world, the Ngwenya Mine, which has been in operation for over 43,000 years and is known for its deposits of iron ore.
31. Despite being a traditional and patriarchal society, Eswatini has seen its women take on leading roles in various sectors, with the constitution guaranteeing equality for women.
32. Various initiatives in Eswatini aim to empower women, particularly in rural areas, to become economically independent through skills development, education, and entrepreneurship.
33. The involvement of local communities in tourism ventures provides a shared sense of ownership and benefits from the kingdom’s natural and cultural assets.
34. The national dish of Eswatini is called “Sishwala,” a traditional porridge made from maize meal and served with various accompanying relishes, such as stewed meat, vegetables, or beans.
35. Traditional healers, known as “sangomas” or “inyanga,” hold significant influence in Eswatini, as many people turn to them for spiritual and medicinal guidance.
36. The Royal Kraal in Lobamba serves as the official residence of the king and is where important cultural ceremonies and events take place.
37. The lion is the national animal of Eswatini, symbolizing royalty and strength, and is often featured in traditional dances and cultural ceremonies.
38. Eswatini has a diverse music scene, known for its traditional “Siswati” music as well as modern genres like hip-hop, gospel, and reggae.
39. The country is a member of the Commonwealth of Nations, a political association of former British colonies, having joined in 1968 after gaining independence.
Conclusion
Eswatini, a small but captivating kingdom in Southern Africa, is a land of rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning natural beauty.
From its status as the last absolute monarchy in Africa to its commitment to conservation and sustainable tourism, this enchanting nation offers a unique and fascinating experience for visitors and locals alike.
Eswatini’s cultural heritage is truly remarkable, with vibrant music, dance, and storytelling traditions that have been passed down through generations.
The country’s artisans are renowned for their intricate handicrafts, particularly the stunning woven baskets made from lutindzi grass.
As a wildlife haven, Eswatini is home to a diverse array of species, including the critically endangered white and black rhinos.
The country’s commitment to conservation and sustainable tourism is commendable, setting an example for other nations to follow.
Despite its small size, Eswatini has made significant strides in women’s empowerment, with initiatives aimed at promoting economic independence and equality.
