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Swaziland
Overview
Country Overview
Swaziland is surrounded by South Africa to the north and west, and by Mozambique to the east. The lush Ezulwini Valley is a miracle of nature and the seat of Swaziland’s major tourist attractions, including the country’s famous casino, the magnificent Royal Swazi golf course and the hot mineral spring known affectionately by locals and guests as the ‘Cuddle Puddle’. Swaziland has a number of protected nature reserves and game parks which are open for visitors and strong efforts have recently been made to bring wildlife back to the country. Mlilwane, the oldest established game sanctuary in Swaziland, was once privately owned but was offered to the nation as a sanctuary for wild animals. The industrial centre of Manzini lies east across the valley, a good half-hour’s drive. On the way, visitors pass signposts to Swaziland’s most famous waterfall, the Mantenga Falls. Food stalls in the local markets sell traditional Swazi meat stew and maize meal or stamped mealies and roasted corn on the cob (in season). There are some Western-style nightclubs in the main tourist centres of Mbabane and Ezulwini Valley. Throughout the year, a number of traditional festivals, dances and rituals are celebrated.
General Information
Area: 17,363 sq km (6704 sq miles).
Population: 1,083,289 (2000).
Population Density: 62.4 per sq km (2000).
Capital: Mbabane. Population: 38,290 (1986).
GEOGRAPHY: Swaziland is surrounded to the north, west and south by the Mpumulanga of South Africa and to the east by Mozambique. There are four main topographical regions: the Highveld Inkangala, a wide ribbon of partly reforested, rugged country including the Usutu pine forest; the Peak Timbers in the northwest; the Middleveld, which rolls down from the Highveld through hills and fertile valleys; and the Lowveld, or bush country, with hills rising from 170-360m (560-1180ft). The Lubombo plateau is an escarpment along the eastern fringe of the Lowveld, comprising mainly cattle country and mixed farmland. One of the best-watered areas in southern Africa, Swaziland’s four major rivers are the Komati, Usutu, Mbuluzi and Ngwavuma, flowing west–east to the Indian Ocean.
Government: Constitutional monarchy since 1973. Gained independence from the UK in 1968. Head of State: King Mswati III since 1986. Head of Government: Prime Minister Barnabas Sibusiso Dlamini since 1993.
Language: English and siSwati.
Religion: Christian (60 per cent) with most of the remainder adhering to traditional beliefs.
Time: GMT + 2.
Electricity: 220/30 volts AC, 50Hz; 15-amp round pin plugs are in use.
Telephone
IDD is available. Country code: 268. Outgoing international calls must go through the international operator. Public telephones are available.
Mobile telephone
GSM 900 network. Network operators include Swazi MTN (website: www.swazimtn.sz).
Fax
Many hotels in Mbabame have facilities.
Internet
ISPs include Real Image Internet (website: www.realnet.co.sz).
Telegram
Facilities are available in the capital. However, Telex is often a more efficient and cheaper way to send international communications; machines can be found at post offices and major hotels in Mbabame.
Post
Post offices are in all main centres. Airmail to Europe is unreliable and can take from two weeks to two months. Post office hours: Mon-Fri 0800-1300 and 1400-1700, Sat 0800-1100.
Press
The English-language newspaper in Swaziland is The Times of Swaziland.
BBC World Service and Voice of America frequencies: From time to time these change.
BBC (website: www.bbc.co.uk/worldservice):
Voice of America (website: www.voa.gov):
Passport/Visa
| | Passport Required? | Visa Required? | Return Ticket Required? | | British | Yes | No | Yes | | Australian | Yes | No | Yes | | Canadian | Yes | No | Yes | | USA | Yes | No | Yes | | OtherEU | Yes | No | Yes | | Japanese | Yes | No | Yes |
PASSPORTS: Passport valid for at least six months upon entry required by all.
VISAS: Required by all except the following for stays of up to 60 days:
(a) nationals of countries referred to in the chart above;
(b) nationals of Commonwealth countries (except nationals of Antigua & Barbuda, Bangladesh, Cameroon, India, Maldives, Mauritius, Mozambique, Nigeria, Pakistan and Sri Lanka who do require a visa);
(c) nationals of Iceland, Israel, Liechtenstein, Norway, Poland, San Marino and Taiwan.
Types of visa and cost: Single-entry: £16. Multiple-entry: £24 (three months); £38 (six months); £52 (nine months); £60 (twelve months).
Note: Transit passengers should consult their carrying company when making reservations for up-to-date details of whether a visa is required.
Validity: Three to six months from date of issue for stays of up to 60 days each. Applications for extensions should be submitted to the Chief Immigration Officer in Swaziland.
Application to: Consulate (or Consular section at Embassy or High Commission); see Contact Addresses section.
Application requirements: (a) Application form. (b) Two passport-size photos. (c) Fee. (d) Valid passport. (e) Proof of means of support during stay. (f) Letter on headed paper confirming that the visitor holds return or onward tickets. (g) For all visitors except tourists, a letter of invitation from a Swazi national or for business trips, a letter from applicant’s company giving details of the business and confirming the financial responsibility for the applicant.
Working days required: One or two unless authorisation is required, in which case the application could take several weeks.
Temporary residence: Apply to Chief Immigration Officer.
Money
Currency: Lilangeni (E) = 100 cents. The plural of Lilangeni is Emalangeni. Notes are in denominations of E200, 100, 50, 20 and 10. Coins are in denominations of E5, 2 and 1, and 100, 50, 20, 10, 5, 2 and 1 cents. The South African Rand is also accepted as legal tender (E1 = 1 Rand) although coins are not accepted.
Currency exchange: Visitors are advised to exchange Emalangeni back into their own currency before leaving Swaziland.
Credit & debit cards: American Express, Visa and MasterCard are widely accepted. Check with your credit or debit card company for details of merchant acceptability and other facilities which may be available.
Travellers cheques: Widely accepted. Several banks will exchange travellers cheques, but to avoid additional exchange rate charges, travellers are advised to take them in Euros, US Dollars or Pounds Sterling.
Currency restrictions: The import and export of foreign and local currency is unrestricted.
Exchange rate indicators
The following figures are included as a guide to the movements of the Lilangeni against Sterling and the US Dollar:
| Date | May ’02 | Aug ’02 | Nov ’02 | Feb ’03 | | £1.00= | 14.58 | 16.45 | 14.99 | 12.83 | | $1.00= | 10.00 | 10.81 | 9.48 | 8.06 |
Banking hours: Mon-Fri 0830-1430, Sat 0830-1100.
Duty Free
The following items may be imported into Swaziland without incurring customs duty:
400 cigarettes and 50 cigars and 250g of tobacco; 1 bottle (750ml) of alcoholic beverages; 284ml of perfume per person; free export of souvenirs and presents.
Note: Married couples travelling together are allowed free import for one person only.
Public Holidays
Dec 25 2002 Christmas Day. Dec 26 Boxing Day. Dec/Jan Incwala Ceremony*. Jan 1 2003 New Year’s Day. Apr 18 Good Friday. Apr 19 Birthday of King Mswati. Apr 21 Easter Monday. Apr 25 National Flag Day. May 1 Labour Day. May 29 Ascension. Jul 22 Birthday of the Late King Sobhuza. Aug/Sep Umhlanga, Reed Dance Day*. Sep 6 Somhlolo Day (Independence Day). Dec 25 Christmas Day. Dec 26 Boxing Day. Dec/Jan Incwala Ceremony*. Jan 1 2004 New Year’s Day. Apr 9 Good Friday. Apr 12 Easter Monday. Apr 19 Birthday of King Mswati. Apr 25 National Flag Day. May 1 Labour Day. May 20 Ascension. Jul 22 Birthday of the Late King Sobhuza. Aug/Sep Umhlanga, Reed Dance Day*. Sep 6 Somhlolo Day (Independence Day). Dec 25 Christmas Day. Dec 26 Boxing Day. Dec/Jan Incwala Ceremony*.
Note: *The dates of the Incwala and Umhlanga ceremonies vary according to local sightings of the moon. Contact the Embassy/High Commission for further details.
Health
| | Special Precautions | Certificate Required | | Yellow Fever | No | 1 | | Cholera | Yes | 2 | | Typhoid and Polio | 3 | N/A | | Malaria | 4 | N/A |
1: A yellow fever vaccination certificate is required by travellers arriving from infected areas.
2: Following WHO guidelines issued in 1973, a cholera vaccination certificate is no longer a condition of entry to Swaziland. However, cholera is a risk in the country and precautions are essential. Up-to-date advice should be sought before deciding whether these precautions should include vaccination as medical opinion is divided over its effectiveness. See the Health appendix.
3: Vaccination against typhoid is advised.
4: Malaria risk exists throughout the year (particularly in the rainy season, from November to February) in all Lowveld areas, particularly Big Bend, Mhlume, Simunye and Tshaneni. The predominant falciparum strain is reported to be highly resistant to chloroquine.
Food & drink: Mains water is generally safe but bottled or sterilised water is preferable. Drinking water outside major cities and towns may be contaminated. Milk is pasteurised and dairy products are safe for consumption; exercise caution if milk is of uncertain provenance. Only eat well-cooked meat and fish, preferably served hot. Pork, salad and mayonnaise may carry increased risk. Vegetables should be cooked and fruit peeled.
Other risks: Bilharzia (schistosomiasis) is endemic. Avoid swimming and paddling in fresh water. Swimming pools which are well chlorinated and maintained are safe. Hepatitis A is present; hepatitis B is highly endemic and precautions should be taken. Rabies is present.
Arthropod-borne diseases such as Crimean-congo haemorrhagic fever, plague, relapsing fever, Rift valley fever and tick-bite fever have been reported.
The humid climate may provoke asthma and other respiratory disorders.
Health care: Although medical facilities are generally limited in Swaziland, Mbabame Clinic is well-equipped to deal with minor problems. Most international visitors will use private services, frequently attached to the larger hotels. The public sector is improving and treatment is available at low cost. In emergency cases, where specialised treatment is required, the patient may be transported to a South African hospital. Health insurance is recommended. Personal medications may be brought into the country, but a doctor’s note is advisable in case of questioning by authorities.
Travel - International
AIR: Swaziland’s national airline is Royal Swazi National Airways Corporation (ZC). Comair operates flights to Johannesburg. Swazi Airlink runs a once- or twice-daily link from Manzini to Johannesburg.
Approximate flight times: From Manzini to London is 16 hours including stopover. From Manzini to Johannesburg is 1 hour.
International airports: Manzini (MTS) (Matsapha) is 5km (3 miles) northwest of the city. Airport facilities include banks/bureaux de change (0800-1645), restaurants, car hire (Avis and Hertz) and snack bar. Taxi service to the city centre is available on all arrivals (travel time – 15 minutes).
Departure tax: E20. Children under three years old and direct transit passengers are exempt.
ROAD: There are good roads from Johannesburg, Durban and northern KwaZulu-Natal as well as tourist buses running from KwaZulu-Natal and Mpumalanga. On crossing the border you will be required to show your passport and visa (if required). There is also a token road tax of E5 to be paid. Bus: There is a weekly service from Mbabane and Manzini to Johannesburg (travel time – 8 hours), and a twice-weekly connection from Mbabane to Maputo.
RAIL: A new train service between Durban and Maputo travels through Swaziland stopping at Mpaka, 35km (22 miles) east of Manzini. Departures from Durban are twice weekly (travel time – 16 hours).
Travel - Internal
ROAD: The road system is largely well developed, although there is little street lighting, some roads are winding and roads can be rough in the bush. Small toll charges are set to be introduced on the new highway between Mbabane and Manzini. The maximum speed limit on all roads is 80kph (50mph). The legal blood alcohol limit is 0.15 per cent. Traffic drives on the left. Bus: There are numerous (not always entirely safe) buses connecting the different parts of the country, including non-stop buses. Minibus taxis run shorter routes at slightly higher prices than the buses. Car hire: There are a number of international car hire companies in Swaziland. Documentation: An International Driving Permit is required.
TRAVEL TIMES: The following chart gives approximate travel times (in hours and minutes) from Mbabane to other major towns in Swaziland.
| | Road |
| Manzini | 0.45 |
| Nhlangano | 2.00 |
| Piggs Peak | 1.00 |
| Siteki | 1.30 |
Accommodation
There are some good hotels in Swaziland, some of international standard, but it is necessary to book well in advance. Rates quoted are generally per person based on two people sharing. Expect prices to be significantly higher in peak season (December-January and Easter). There are also smaller motels and inns, campsites and caravan parks outside the city. For further information, contact the Hotel and Tourism Association of Swaziland, PO Box 462, Oribi Court, Allister Miller Street, Mbabane H100 (tel: (40) 42218; fax: (40) 44516). Grading: The star-grading system is in use.
CAMPING: Camping is possible near almost every tourist attraction and in all the national parks.
Mbabne & Area
Mbabne, the capital of Swaziland, lies at the northern end of the Ezulwini Valley amid the granite peaks and valleys that make up the Dlangeni hills. Mbabne is Swaziland’s administrative capital and is small, relaxed and unpretentious. The main attractions in town are the Mall, the New Mall and Allister Miller, the main street, named after the first European to be born there.
EZULWINI VALLEY: The lush Ezulwini Valley is a miracle of nature and the seat of Swaziland’s major tourist attractions. Although Swaziland has long been regarded as one of the most beautiful countries in Africa, it was not until an Italian and South African syndicate built southern Africa’s first casino hotel on a prime valley site some 12 years ago that Swaziland geared itself towards tourism. In the valley is the magnificent Royal Swazi golf course, the casino, the hot mineral spring – one of eight in the country – known affectionately by locals and guests as the ‘Cuddle Puddle’, a health studio and a cluster of fine hotels forming the Holiday Valley complex.
Lobamba: In the heart of the Ezulwini Valley is Swaziland’s royal valley, Lobamba, the spiritual and legislative capital of the kingdom. It is home to the royals’ Embo State Palace. The National Museum is housed here, which offers displays on Swazi culture and has a traditional beehive village beside it.
MANZINI: East across the valley is Swaziland’s largest town and its commercial hub, Manzini. On the way here, visitors pass signposts to Swaziland’s most famous waterfall, the Mantenga Falls, the thriving Mantenga Arts & Crafts Centre, the Mlilwane Game Sanctuary, Matsapha Airport and the industrial area of Matsapha, which produces everything from beer to television sets.
There is an outstanding market every day except Sunday; dawn on Thursdays and Fridays is particularly worth a visit as it is when the rural people bring in their handicrafts to sell to retailers. Manzini’s only other point of interest is its original Catholic mission, an elegant stone building opposite the new cathedral; it is not open to casual visitors. Unfortunately the city has little else to offer and is polluted with reckless drivers, city slickers and an ever-growing crime record.
Piggs Peak and the northwest
The rolling hills, sparkling streams, and countless waterfalls make this one of the most appealing regions of Swaziland. Piggs Peak, a small forestry town straggled along the main road, was named after a French prospector called William Pigg, who discovered gold nearby in 1884, where it was mined until the site was exhausted in 1954. Nearby, the Ngwenya Glass Factory is the origin of one of Swaziland’s best-known exports, Ngwenya glass. Their products, which range from attractive wine glasses to endless trinkets in the shape of rotund animals, are made from recycled glass and are produced by highly skilled workers, who can be watched in action.
The South
The scenery, particularly along the drive from Mahamba to Manzini through the Grand Valley, is really superb, and the road passes near most of the historical sites of the Swazi royal house. Big Bend itself, dominated by a huge sugar mill, is only worth visiting for its hotel, the New Bend Inn. It is a slightly run-down colonial establishment with superb views of the valley and well-positioned bars; it is a lively Swazi haunt at weekends, when major parties take place.
The area is currently being developed for tourism, and the first project has been the construction of another casino hotel at Nhlangano, about 120km (75 miles) south of Mbabane. The sports facilities, which include a golf course and swimming pool, are excellent. The nearby Mkondo River twists its way through gorges and valleys, past waterfalls, pools and rapids and, in the distance, the mountain ranges gleam brown, mauve and blue. Some of Swaziland’s finest paintings are found in this area. Other indigenous paintings are located in the mountains north of Mbabane.
Nature Reserves & Game Parks
The Swaziland National Trust Commission (SNTC) is responsible for the preservation and development of Swaziland’s many areas of natural beauty and wildlife. There are currently four SNTC nature reserves, namely Malolotja, Hawane, Mantenga and Mlawula, all of which are inhabited by a rich wildlife (including rare species such as the aardwolf or African finfoot) and a wide range of bird species. These reserves are characterised by some of the most beautiful landscapes in southern Africa. In recent years, strong efforts were made to bring back wildlife to the country. As a result, the SNTC has taken a number of once privately run game parks under its wing such as Mlilwane, the country’s oldest established game sanctuary. Other game sanctuaries that have recently been proclaimed protected areas are Malolotsha, in the north near Piggs Peak; Hlane, in the shadow of the escarpment in the northeast; and Mkhaya. Hlane has wide open spaces supporting big herds of game where the visitor can see the old traditional scenes of Africa. Both Hlane and Malolotsha, which is situated on top of a mountain range and surrounded by steep canyons and waterfalls, are easily reached by road and different types of accommodation and tours are available. For more information, contact the Swaziland National Trust Commission, PO Box 100, Lobamba (tel: (41) 61481 or 61179; fax: (41) 61875; e-mail: staff@swazimus.org.sz; website: www.sntc.org.sz); or the Ministry of Tourism (see Contact Addresses section).
MKHAYA GAME RESERVE: Roughly 30km (19 miles) north of Big Bend is Mkhaya Nature Reserve, situated along a turn-off from the brilliantly named village of Phuzumoya (‘drink the wind’) in classic lowveld scrubland, filled with acacia and thorn trees. Ted Reilly initially purchased Mkhaya to save the long-horned Nguni cattle when white beef-farmers regarded them as too puny and unproductive for their industry, and replaced them with imported stock. Today, the cattle graze alongside zebra, wildebeest and antelope, just as they always used to. Among the other endangered species at Mkhaya are the rare black rhinos and the near-extinct roan antelope.
MLILWANE WILDLIFE SANCTUARY: This reserve, near Lobamba, is in the heart of the Ezulwini Valley. Its name, Mlilwane, refers to the little fire that appears on occasion when lightning strikes the granite mountains. The wildlife is predominantly herbivorous, including antelope, giraffe and zebra, but crocodiles are not uncommon. Over 100km (62 miles) of road enables you to drive through the park to view game, or guided walks and drives can be arranged through the park office.
MLAWULA NATURE RESERVE: The Lubombo Mountains that run along the eastern border of Mlawula Nature Reserve provide fantastic views of both Swaziland and the western fringes of Mozambique. Unique species of ironwood trees and cycads grow on the slopes. There are well-organised trails through the reserve. The Mlawula stream and more substantial Mbuluzi River both flow through some spectacular valleys in this reserve, and early Stone Age tools over one million years old have been found along their beds.
Sport & Activities
Wildlife safaris: Guided safaris (either by car on on foot) are available in Swaziland’s nature reserves and game parks (see Resorts & Excursions section). The Milwane Wildlife Sanctuary can also be toured on horseback. Despite its small size, Swaziland offers an interesting variety of terrains and animal species. Prices tend to be lower than in neighbouring South Africa. Whitewater rafting trips are available on the Great Usutu River in the Mkhaya Game Reserve.
Hiking: Popular hikes include the ascent to Malolotsha Falls at Piggs Peak; Sibebe Mountain, a huge granite outcrop that provides a scenic spot for a picnic; and the climb up Emlembe, Swaziland’s highest peak.
General: There is an 18-hole golf course in the Ezulwini Valley attached to the Royal Swazi Sun Hotel and Spa and the Havelock Golf Course. Tennis courts are available at numerous major hotels, notably the Royal Swazi. Several hotels have swimming pools and non-residents are generally permitted to use the facilities.
Social Profile
Food & Drink: Restaurants are found mainly in the larger centres and at hotels. Most serve international cuisine: Greek, Hungarian and Indian food is available. Food stalls in the local markets sell traditional Swazi meat stew and maize meal or stamped mealies and roasted corn on the cob (in season).
There is a good selection of spirits, beers and wines. Traditional Swazi beer can be tasted in rural areas. There are no formal licensing hours.
Nightlife: In the main centres of Mbabane and Ezulwini Valley, there are nightclubs and discos, some with live music and cabaret. The main attraction in Ezulwini Valley is the casino at the Royal Swazi Hotel. There is also a cinema there.
Shopping: There is a modern shopping complex in Mbabane but local markets are always interesting places to shop. Purchases from craft centres include beadwork, basketry, grass and sisal mats, copperware, wooden bowls, local gemstone jewellery, wooden and soapstone carvings, calabashes, knobkerries, battleaxes, walking sticks, karosses (animal skin mats), drums, woven cloth and batik and tie-dye, which are often incorporated into traditional Swazi garments. Shopping hours: Mon-Fri 0800-1700, Sat 0800-1300.
Special Events: Every December or January at a time carefully chosen by astrologers, the Incwala (‘Fruit Ceremony’) takes place. It is a four-day ceremony encompassing the entire nation and culminating in a ritual during which the king eats the first fruit of the new season. The ceremony confers the blessing of their ancestors on the nation’s consumption of these fruits. In August or September, the Umhlanga (‘Reed Dance’) is an event in which young women pay homage to the Queen Mother.
Social Conventions: Traditional ways of life are still strong and Swazi culture in the form of religious music, dance, poetry and craftsmanship plays an important part in daily life. Casual wear is normal although more formal wear is customary at the casino and sophisticated hotels. Visitors wishing to camp near villages should first inform the headman. He can normally help with customs. Photography: Permission to photograph individuals should always be sought. In some cases, a gratuity may be asked for (especially if the subject has gone to some effort to make a show – for example, by wearing traditional regalia). It is prohibited to photograph the Royal Palace, the Royal Family, uniformed police, army personnel, army vehicles or aircraft and bank buildings. Visitors wishing to photograph traditional ceremonies should first contact the Government Information Service, PO Box 338, Mbabane (tel: (40) 42761 or 43251; fax: (40) 43953; e-mail: nhlanhla@realnet.co.sz). Tipping: Ten to 15 per cent of the bill is customary in restaurants and hotels.
Business Profile
Economy: The economy is dominated by, and closely linked with, that of South Africa and the country is a member of the Southern African Customs Union (from which the Government receives around half its total revenue). Agriculture is by far the largest part of the economy, employing over 75 per cent of the working population. Sugar, cotton and fruit are the main cash crops. Tobacco and rice are recent additions to the country’s produce, while livestock rearing is traditionally important. The industrial sector, which contributes over 40 per cent of GDP, has grown particularly rapidly since the mid-1980s, and is mainly concerned with processing agricultural products, largely food and wood products including paper, and also the production of textiles and metal goods. The country’s mining industry produces coal, of which there are extensive reserves, but the other main products of asbestos, iron ore and diamonds have been in long-term decline mainly because of falling export demand. The removal of sanctions against South Africa gave a boost to the Swazi economy but the gains have been undermined by a number of factors: political instability, bad weather, low commodity prices, the impact of widespread HIV/AIDS infection on the workforce, and the decline in the value of the South African rand to which the Swazi currency is linked. Unemployment remains at an estimated 40 per cent. The Government has made a considerable effort to attract foreign capital to fund future development: construction projects underway for new tourism and business convention facilities, along with new infrastructure projects, indicate that it has had some success. Apart from South Africa, which dominates Swazi trade, the most important trading partners are the UK and France.
Business: Lightweight suits are generally expected for business. Appointments are necessary and business cards are exchanged. English is widely spoken in business circles. Office hours: Mon-Fri 0800-1300 and 1400-1645.
Commercial Information: The following organisations can offer advice: Swaziland Industrial Development Co (SIDC), PO Box 886, Dhlan’Ubeka House, Tin/Walker Streets, Mbabane (tel: (40) 44010; fax: (40) 45619; e-mail: info@sidc.co.sz; website: www.sidc.co.sz); or Swaziland Chamber of Commerce and Industry, PO Box 72, Mbabane (tel: (40) 44408; fax: (40) 45442; e-mail: chamber@business-swaziland.com; website: www.business-swaziland.com/chamber).
Conferences/Conventions: The principal facilities are at the Royal Swazi Convention Centre in the Ezulwini Valley, which has seating for up to 600 people. Several hotels also have facilities for smaller numbers, with back-up services. The Ministry of Tourism (see Contact Addresses section) can supply information.
Climate
Due to the variations in altitude the weather is changeable. Except in the lowland, it is rarely uncomfortably hot and nowhere very cold, although frosts occasionally occur in the Highveld which has a wetter, temperate climate. The Middleveld and Lubombo are drier and subtropical with most rain from October to March.
History and Government
History: Swaziland became a British Protectorate in 1907, following the Boer War of 1899-1902. The country became independent in September 1968. Repeated South African requests that the territory be handed over to them had been refused by the British, who administered Swaziland (like Botswana and Lesotho) as a ‘High Commission Territory’ – one of three established by a 1910 Act of Parliament. Since independence, the country’s domestic politics have suffered constant turbulence. Between 1973 and 1978, the constitution was suspended and a state of emergency imposed at the instigation of the king. Political parties, public gatherings and freedom of speech were all outlawed.
In 1978, a new constitution concentrated political power in the hands of the monarch, who appointed a prime minister and cabinet; the state of emergency remained in force, however. An elected parliament, the Libandla, in which political parties remained illegal, was established, although its functions were restricted to conveying advice to the king and his principal advisory body, the Liqoqo (Supreme Council of State). The current monarch, King Mswati III, was crowned in April 1986. Political stability continued to prove elusive during the late 1980s – the Mswati monarchy was repeatedly threatened by plots organised by dissident members of the royal family and disaffected politicians but all were stifled with apparent ease.
The focus of opposition has been the People’s United Democratic Movement (PUDEMO), which operated largely clandestinely until February 1992, when it declared itself a legal opposition party – in contravention of the government ban on political association – and demanded a constitutional referendum. Although steady pressure has been exerted against the king from both inside and outside the country, he remains immune to any warnings and entreaties and continues to be one of the world’s few absolute monarchs. The king was more inclined to dismiss those who delivered such messages than to take heed of them and the country remains subject to regular internal political disturbances. A notable recent casualty was Dr Sishayi Nxumalo, one of the country’s most experienced politicians, who had taken over as prime minister in mid-1996 and was dismissed in April 1998. His replacement was Barnabas Dlamini. The campaign to reduce the powers of the monarch has now been taken up by opposition leader Mario Masuku who has had several major spats with Mswati.
The major complaint against the monarch concerns his profligate lifestyle. Swaziland is desperately poor and suffered a serious food shortage during 2002. Moreover, according to a January 2003 World Health Organisation report, the country has the world’s highest incidence of HIV/AIDS, with an estimated 40% of the adult population infected.
Swaziland’s foreign relations are dominated by South Africa. In general, these have undergone a steady improvement since 1994 and the advent of majority rule in South Africa. The main points of contention are a number of territorial disputes in which Swaziland claims tracts of land in the KwaZulu-Natal and Mpumalanga provinces.
Government: The constitution dates from 1978. The monarch is the head of state and appoints the ministers. Parliament consists of the Senate, with 20 appointed and ten elected members, and the House of Assembly, with ten appointees and 55 elected representatives. Elections are not direct but made by an electoral college, which itself is directly elected on a regional basis through traditional local councils known as Tinkhundla.
Copyright © 2003 Columbus Publishing Ltd.
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