Verified Facts
Official NameKingdom of Eswatini
CapitalMbabane
Population1.2 million
Area17,364 km² (6,704 sq mi)
LanguagesEnglish, Swazi
CurrencySwazi lilangeni (L), South African rand (R)
TimezoneUTC+02:00
RegionAfrica / Southern Africa
Drives onLeft
Source: REST Countries API
Notable Achievements
| Category | Achievement | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Science | Conservation Efforts | Eswatini has made significant strides in conservation, with a focus on protecting its rich biodiversity, including the Hlane Royal National Park and the Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary |
| Sports | Football Success | The Eswatini national football team has shown improvement in recent years, participating in various international tournaments, including the Africa Cup of Nations |
| Arts | Traditional Crafts | Eswatini is renowned for its traditional crafts, including basket weaving and woodcarving, which are highly prized by locals and tourists alike |
| Development | Poverty Reduction | The country has implemented various initiatives aimed at reducing poverty, including the National Development Strategy, which focuses on improving education, healthcare, and economic opportunities |
| Innovation | Renewable Energy | Eswatini has made efforts to increase its use of renewable energy, including solar and wind power, in order to reduce its reliance on non-renewable energy sources |
| Global Contributions | Peacekeeping Missions | Eswatini has contributed troops to various United Nations peacekeeping missions, demonstrating its commitment to global peace and security |
| Education | Literacy Rates | The country has made significant progress in improving literacy rates, with a focus on increasing access to education, particularly for girls and women |
| Healthcare | HIV/AIDS Treatment | Eswatini has implemented various initiatives to combat HIV/AIDS, including the provision of antiretroviral therapy and the promotion of HIV testing and counseling |
Cultural Treasures
- The Incwala Ceremony, a traditional ritual practiced by the Swazi people, is a UNESCO-recognized cultural heritage event.
- The Ngwenya Glass Factory is a popular tourist destination, showcasing the country's rich glassmaking traditions.
- The Eswatini National Museum is home to a vast collection of artifacts and exhibits showcasing the country's history and culture.
- The Swazi Candles Centre is a renowned craft center, offering a range of traditional Swazi crafts, including candle-making and weaving.
- The Mantenga Nature Reserve is a protected area, featuring a range of flora and fauna, as well as traditional Swazi settlements.
People & Global Impact
- King Mswati III, the current monarch of Eswatini, has played a significant role in promoting the country's culture and traditions globally.
- The Eswatini diaspora has made significant contributions to various fields, including medicine, education, and the arts, with many Swazi individuals holding prominent positions internationally.
- Queen Dzeliwe, the former queen mother of Eswatini, was a prominent figure in the country's struggle for independence and a strong advocate for women's rights.
- The Swazi people are known for their strong sense of community and tradition, with a focus on ubuntu, or humanity, which emphasizes the importance of respect, empathy, and compassion.
What Visitors Love
- The warm hospitality of the Swazi people, who are known for their welcoming nature and friendly demeanor.
- The traditional Swazi cuisine, which includes dishes such as sosatie (meat skewers) and bunny chow (a hollowed-out loaf of bread filled with curry).
- The scenic beauty of Eswatini, with its rolling hills, mountains, and valleys, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
- The Hlane Royal National Park, which offers a range of wildlife viewing opportunities, including game drives and walking safaris.
- The Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary, which provides a safe haven for a range of wildlife, including elephants, giraffes, and zebras.
- The annual Reed Dance, a traditional ceremony where thousands of women gather to dance and sing, showcasing the country's rich cultural heritage.
Hidden Gems
- The Malolotja Nature Reserve is a lesser-known destination, offering stunning scenery, hiking trails, and a range of flora and fauna.
- The Mlawula Nature Reserve is a protected area, featuring a range of wildlife, including elephants, buffalo, and antelope.
- The Eswatini Railway Museum is a small museum, showcasing the country's railway history and featuring a range of locomotives and rolling stock.
- The Swazi Trails offer a range of hiking and biking trails, providing visitors with the opportunity to explore the country's beautiful landscapes and experience its rich cultural heritage.