History of Eswatini

Originally found in southern Africa, the small landlocked nation Eswatini formally was the Kingdom of Eswatini. Among the smallest countries in Africa, its population is over 1.2 million. Our nation boasts many thousands of years of rich and varied history.

Early History

Hunter-gatherers living in what is now Eswatini circa 20,000 years were the first occupants. Following them were Bantu-speaking tribes arriving in the region from central Africa during the Bantu invasion circa 500 AD. Little kingdoms and chiefdoms were created by these tribes; the most well-known clan is the Dhlamini.

Arrival of European Colonizers

Britain colonized Eswatini in the late 19th century. Originally under British rule and a part of the South African Republic, the nation became a protectorate for Britain in 1906. Over this century, Eswatini's traditional political structure underwent a major transformation. For instance, the British established an indirect administration structure whereby they closely observed local chiefs all throughout the nation.

Swazi settlers (18th and 19th centuries)

During the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries, Swazi people began to settle in Eswatini. King Sobhuza I oversaw them and saw them as the modern Eswatini creators. He set the royal capital there and brought other clans from Zombodze under his command. These Swazi immigrants established the current Swazi nation; their descendants today account for a large portion of Eswatini's population.

Swaziland's British indirect control (1906–1968) 

Eswatini saw remarkable economic growth as mining and commercial farming under British administration spread. Still under colonial control, the country gave its citizens only limited political rights.  Renaming Eswatini Swaziland. It gained its independence from Britain in 1968.

Independence (1968–present) 

King Sobhuza II turned Eswatini into a constitutional monarchy after it acquired its freedom from Britain in 1968. Since then, the country has developed both politically and economically; in 2018, it changed its name from Swaziland to Eswatini. Eswatini is still a stable and peaceful nation today with a developing economy and a special fusion of modern and traditional customs.

Geography

Comprising an area of 17,364 square kilometers, Eswatini is a small nation. Mozambique borders it east; South Africa borders it north, west, and south. Mountains, valleys, and savannas abound over the national scene.

Climate 

Eswatini boasts mild temperatures with comfortable winters and lovely summers. Given that most of the rain falls between October and March, the nation is perfect for agriculture. The altitude affects the temperature greatly; higher locations are colder than lower ones.

Biodiversity and conservation 

Rich in many kinds of plants and animals, Eswatini is well-known for its national parks and reserves designed to preserve its natural legacy.  In addition, committed to environmental preservation, Eswatini has worked on a number of initiatives meant to protect its species and resources.

Politics 

King of Eswatini is a constitutional monarchy headed by a king under a constitution. Mswati III has been in command of his nation since 1986 and is really strong right now. Still, there is a prime minister and parliament handling daily government. Eswatini has kept a steady and peaceful government in the face of certain political obstacles.

Monarchy

Eswatini's history and culture depend much on the monarchy. Apart from his political leadership, the king has a holy place in customs and ceremonies. The national economy is greatly shaped by the monarchy since it owns vast regions of land and investments.

Parliament 

The bicameral parliament of Eswatini consists of the Senate and the House of Assembly. The voters select the members of the House of Assembly; the king mostly names members of the Senate. Law passing and government policy monitoring fall to the parliament.

Political culture 

Eswatini's political culture is shaped by its great feeling of community and conventional values. The people really appreciate the king; hence, preserving harmony and respect for authority is rather important. But political change and more citizen rights have been under more demand recently.

Elections

Although Eswatini holds elections every five years, its lack of complete democratic character has drawn criticism. The king has great control over the voting process, hence, political parties are not allowed to take part. Still, initiatives aiming at increasing inclusiveness and openness in the elections have been undertaken.

Foreign relations 

Eswatini is a member of various international organizations like the African Union and the United Nations and has close links to surrounding nations. Furthermore, the nation keeps close ties with Britain, its former colonizer.

Military 

Eswatini boasts a tiny military force that is mostly in charge of national defense. For extra security assistance, though, the nation also depends on its neighbors, Mozambique and South Africa. Efforts for disaster relief and community development also involve the military.

Administrative divisions

There are four divisions to Eswatini, each having local councils and a regional administration. These territories are further split into 55 tinkhundla, or conventional administrative divisions.

Economy 

Since most people in Eswatini engage in subsistence farming, its economy mostly depends on agriculture. The nation boasts a developing manufacturing industry as well, especially in sugar and textile production.  Still major issues for the nation, nevertheless, unemployment and poverty.

Demographics 

Eswatini boasts a varied population reflecting several ethnic groups and languages. Though many individuals also speak Zulu, Swati and English are the official languages. Christianity is the religion most often observed in the country.

Languages

Swati and English are the official languages of Eswatini. Reflecting the many ethnic groups of the nation, additional languages, such as Zulu and Tsonga, are also rather common.

Religion 

About 90% of Eswatini's population identifies as Christian; this is the most followed religion there. Many Swazi people's spiritual beliefs and way of life also center mostly on traditional African ideas and practices.

Health 

Eswatini still suffers from high HIV/AIDS and other avoidable diseases even though it has made tremendous progress in improving healthcare. Every citizen should have access to first-rate healthcare, the government wants to ensure.

Education 

Children aged six to thirteen in Eswatini have free and mandatory education. Though the nation boasts a high literacy rate, urban and rural communities nevertheless experience different access to and quality of education.

Tourism 

With its stunning scenery and rich culture drawing guests from all around, Eswatini boasts a flourishing tourism business. The nation presents chances for outdoor sports, cultural encounters, and safaris.

Culture 

The customs of Eswatini have great roots in its historical ideas and way of life. The country is well-known for its colorful festivities, which feature the yearly Reed Dance honoring young women's turning of age.

Sport

Especially rugby and soccer, sports are fairly popular in Eswatini. Apart from organizing international activities as the COSAFA Cup, the country features several professional sports teams.