Hubbry Logo
LobambaLobambaMain
Open search
Lobamba
Community hub
Lobamba
logo
8 pages, 0 posts
0 subscribers
Be the first to start a discussion here.
Be the first to start a discussion here.
Lobamba
Lobamba
Lobamba
View on Wikipedia
from Wikipedia

Lobamba is a town in Eswatini located in between Eswatini's two main cities, Mbabane and Manzini.

Key Information

Its located in the Hhohho region, with Mbabane as the nearest city and Lusushwana river as the nearest river. It is located between Ezulwini and Mahlanya and is opposite Elangeni.

This town holds cultural significance in Eswatini as it features places of great significance. It serves as a legislative, traditional, spiritual, seat of government of the Parliament of Eswatini,[5] and Ludzidzini Royal Village, the residence of Queen Ntfombi, the Queen Mother.[6][7]

It is about ten kilometres from King Mswati III 's palace, the Lozitha Palace. It also houses Somhlolo National Stadium.

Overview

[edit]

Lobamba is located in the western part of the country[8] in the woodland "Valley of Heaven", or Ezulwini Valley.[9] It is 16 kilometres (10 mi) from Mbabane, in the district of Hhohho[6] and has a subtropical climate with wet summers and dry winters.[8]

Sobhuza II

In 1997 its population was 3,625.[6] Its population in 2006 was 11,000.[10] Across the country, 84.3% of its people are Swazi and 9.9% are Zulu. The remainder are Tsonga (2.5%), Indian (1.6%) and others (1.7%). Its official languages are Swazi and English.[8]

History

[edit]

Two areas have been called Lobamba, the first now called "Old Lobamba" was established in 1750 in southern Eswatini. The subject of this article is a settlement that was created by Sobhuza II in the northwest section of the country.[11][nb 1]

In 1903, following the Boer Wars, the British government took control of Eswatini, and it was then ruled by a regent. In 1921 King Sobhuza II became leader of Eswatini, which was still under the British government's control.[15] Eswatini became independent of the British government on September 6, 1968, which was announced at a cattle byre in Lobamba by Prince Makhosini. He was the country's first prime minister and the great-grandson of Sobhuza I. With its independence, Eswatini was a member in its own right of the Organization of African Unity (OAU), British Commonwealth, and the United Nations.[16] It was made a constitutional monarchy under Sobhuza II,[17] who lived in the royal residence, or kraal, in Lobamba.[17]

Government

[edit]
Mswati III, King of Eswatini
April 1986–present

Lobamba is the legislative seat of the Eswatini government.[5]

Parliament of Eswatini

[edit]
Main article: Parliament of Eswatini

It was made a branch of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association on January 1, 1965, and its date of independence was January 1, 1968. The constitution was signed by King Mswati III on July 26, 2005. The king appoints the prime minister and the council. There are two chambers: the Senate and the House of Assembly.[5] The parliament building is occasionally open to visitors.[18]

Lobamba also has Inkhundla, where residents can get services like birth certificate registration, passports, identity cards, and other national documents.

Embo State Palace

[edit]

The royal Embo State Palace was built by the British to house the polygamous Sobhuza II and his family, including 600 children. It is not open to visitors and photographs are not allowed.[9][18]

Royal residences

[edit]

King Mswati III lives at the Lozitha Palace, about ten kilometres (6 mi) from the city. He visits the Royal Kraal, or Ludzidzini Royal Residence, during the Umhlanga dance and Incwala ceremonies.[18] The royal village includes the queen mother's Royal Kraal, dwelling clusters, and a parade ground for ceremonies.[19]

Infrastructure

[edit]

Law enforcement

[edit]
Lord Selborne, High Commissioner for South Africa signed a proclamation in 1907 for what became the Eswatini Police Force.

Lobamba has a police station and is served by The Royal Eswatini Police Service.[20] During the British colonial era Lord Selborne, High Commissioner for South Africa signed a proclamation in 1907 for what became the Eswatini Police Force. After Eswatini's independence in 1968, the force was renamed the Royal Eswatini Police Force. Its name was further changed making it a service, rather than a force.[21]

Education

[edit]

There are four schools in Lobamba, 2 primary schools and two high schools. First, there is Lomba National High School .[22] Also, is Lobamba National Primary School, St Mary's Primary School and St Mary's High School.

Health and welfare

[edit]

The government provides health facilities to manage endemic disease and malnutrition. Retirement, disability and survivor pensions are available through its welfare system.[8] Lobamba has two clinics: Lobamba Clinic and St Mary's Clinic that provide health services to community members but not restricted to Lobamba residents.

There is a community centre for the Youth and a care pount for children where children come to play and eat. The availability of the police station helps reduce crime in the area making it safe for people and next to it is a fire station which brings emergency services closer to the people.

Transportation

[edit]

Many of the roads in Eswatini are unsurfaced, but there are good roads that connect principal towns,[8] including the MR3 highway and MR103 road.[9] There are small local airstrips and a railroad that operates between Eswatini and Mozambique.[8] The Matsapha Airport is 23 kilometres (14 mi) from Lobamba. The next closest domestic and international airport is Maputo International Airport in Mozambique, which is 216 kilometres (134 mi) away.[23]

One of the tour operators in Eswatini is Swazi Trails, which has tours of the Lobamba royal village, nature reserves, game parks, and craft centres. Nabo Bashoa runs minibus tours.[24]

Culture and attractions

[edit]

African Life. Some of the Sons of the Late Chief Bokweni Mamba.
National Dancing at Lobamba (1951)

Key attractions

[edit]
  1. Eswatini Parliament
  2. National Museum of Eswatini - Eswatini National Trust Commission
  3. Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary
  4. King Sobhuza II Memorial Park
  5. Mandzana - hot springs

National Museum of Eswatini

[edit]

The National Museum of Eswatini, located in Lobamba next to the Parliament building, was built in 1972 and expanded in 1986 and 1990.[13][25] The museum was made a non-profit institution in 1974 by the International Council of Museums.[25]

The museum houses a memorial to the revered King Sobhuza II[18] and Swazi and South African artifacts. It has a collection of photographs that include subjects of the Mbabane and Manzini Regions and British colonial administrators. A 16th-century head of Krishna, discovered nearby, is located in the natural history wing and provides evidence of trade with the east.[13][25] The natural history wing includes highveld and lowveld dioramas to illustrate the diverse Eswatini ecosystems and feature rarely seen nocturnal animals. Its nature-centric exhibits integrate environmental and cultural impacts.[19]

A recreation of a Swazi homestead is located outside the museum.[13]

Somhlolo stadium

[edit]

Also located near the Parliament building is the Somhlolo stadium for football and other major events.[13]

Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary

Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary

[edit]
Main article: Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary

Just outside Lobamba is the Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary that has horseback and hiking trails, guided mountain-bike tours, rustic trail camps and camping in caves. Throughout the park are opportunities to observe game,[13] including antelope, giraffe, zebras, and many types of birds.[26]

King Sobhuza II Memorial Park

[edit]

A memorial park was established in the memory of King Sobhuza II, who was the leader of the country's independence in 1968. The king's life is told through an exhibit of photographs. Three of the king's vintage cars are in the museum and his mausoleum is within the park.[19]

Malkern Valley

[edit]

Malkerns Valley is an arts and crafts center located seven kilometres (4+1⁄2 mi) south of Lobamba.[27]

Events

[edit]

Ceremonies

[edit]

Lobamba is famous for two ceremonies that are held there: the Reed Dance,[6] celebrated in August and September in honour of the Queen Mother, and the Incwala,[6][28] in December and January in honour of the King. These ceremonies include dancing, singing, and celebrations with traditional attire.[29][30]

See also

[edit]

Notes

[edit]

References

[edit]

Further reading

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Lobamba

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia

Lobamba is the royal and legislative capital of the Kingdom of , serving as the seat of the nation's bicameral and the traditional residence of the Ndlovukazi, or , in the . Located in the , it functions as the spiritual and cultural heart of the , distinct from , which handles administrative duties. The town hosts key institutions such as the National Museum of and the King Memorial Park, underscoring its role in preserving Swazi heritage and traditions that date back over two centuries.

Geography and Demographics

Location and Administrative Status

Lobamba functions as the royal and legislative capital of the Kingdom of , hosting the Parliament of Eswatini and serving as the traditional residence of the Swazi kings, while operates as the administrative capital approximately 18 kilometers to the north. The town is situated in the Ezulwini within the of central , a valley known as the "Valley of Heaven" that extends southward from near toward . Lobamba lies between Eswatini's primary urban centers of and , in the Middleveld physiographic zone characterized by rolling hills and moderate elevation.

Population and Ethnic Composition

Lobamba's population is estimated at approximately 5,800 residents. Other estimates place it between 4,500 and 5,000, reflecting its status as a small administrative and traditional center rather than a major urban hub. Limited census data specific to Lobamba exists, as national enumerations from the 2017 Eswatini Population and Housing Census focus on broader regions like Hhohho, where Lobamba is located, with no granular town-level breakdowns publicly detailed in official volumes. The ethnic composition of Lobamba aligns closely with national demographics, dominated by the , who form the core of 's population through an amalgamation of clans under traditional chiefly structures. Smaller proportions include Zulu and other African groups, alongside a minor presence of Europeans, primarily of British or Afrikaner descent, often linked to historical administrative or economic roles. As the site of royal residences and legislative institutions, Lobamba likely features a higher concentration of Swazi and traditional elites, though no distinct ethnic census data isolates the town from regional or national patterns. Swazi constitute over 80% nationally, with variations in sources attributing 84% to 97% to the group, underscoring ethnic homogeneity across the kingdom.

Historical Development

Origins and Pre-Colonial Settlement

The region of modern Lobamba in the Ezulwini Valley was settled and developed as a royal center by the Swazi under King (reigned circa 1815–1839), who conquered central Swaziland around 1820–1821 amid northward migrations to escape attacks. Prior inhabitants included Sotho, Tsonga, and Nguni chiefdoms, which were absorbed through conquests and assimilation, enabling the Swazi to establish dominance in the fertile valley with its natural defenses like cave fortresses. An antecedent royal site known as "Old Lobamba" operated in the Shiselweni (Eshiselweni) area from roughly 1780 to 1824, initially settled under Sobhuza I's early rule and predecessors like Ngwane, before being burned by leader Zwide and subsequently renamed. This southern location, near the Ngwavuma River basin, supported early Swazi agricultural-pastoral economies but proved vulnerable to incursions, prompting the shift to Ezulwini for strategic security and resource access. Settlement in Lobamba proper emphasized royal kraals as focal points, with dispersed family homesteads (umuti) radiating outward to facilitate governance, tribute collection, and military mobilization in the pre-colonial kingdom. These patterns reflected the Swazi state's from Nguni migrations originating east of the region before the , culminating in a centralized by the early under leadership.

Colonial Period and British Protectorate

Following the Second Boer War, Swaziland transitioned to protection in 1903 as a High Commission Territory, initially administered from until direct oversight began in 1906. Lobamba maintained its pre-colonial role as the traditional royal capital and 's residence in the Ezulwini Valley, serving as the spiritual and customary governance center distinct from the administrative hub established at . British policy preserved the Swazi king's authority over internal native affairs, enabling traditional structures like the Native Council—advised by indunas under the —to operate from Lobamba and nearby Zombodze, handling civil disputes and customs per native law. In 1907, High Commissioner Lord Selborne enacted a land partition dividing Swaziland into native reserves comprising about one-third of the territory, with the remainder conceded to , prompting immediate Swazi opposition coordinated from the royal in Lobamba. During the regency of Queen Labotsibeni (until circa 1899 for her son Bhunu, extending influence to 1921), and later under —who assumed full kingship on December 20, 1921—Lobamba functioned as the focal point for resistance against land alienation and colonial encroachments, including negotiations with British officials like Resident Commissioner Coryndon. Swazi committees periodically convened at the royal to deliberate on and governance, underscoring Lobamba's enduring centrality amid . Sobhuza II's reign saw sustained efforts to reclaim partitioned lands, including a 1922 delegation to Britain challenging the 1907 settlement, though full restitution occurred only post-independence. Colonial in Lobamba remained minimal; by 1938, it hosted one of three native schools, emphasizing within traditional settings. As decolonization advanced, Lobamba emerged as the base for Sobhuza II's rejection of British constitutional proposals in the 1960s, prioritizing monarchical authority and leading to recognition of his kingship in 1967 and independence on September 6, 1968. Throughout the protectorate, the site's role reinforced Swazi cultural continuity against administrative separation, with the royal household engaging British envoys directly at Lobamba and Zombodze.

Independence and Modern Era

Eswatini attained independence from British colonial rule on September 6, 1968, marking the end of the protectorate established in 1903. The proclamation of independence was delivered in Lobamba, underscoring the town's central role as the traditional seat of Swazi governance and royal authority. On that same day, King Sobhuza II addressed the newly formed Parliament in Lobamba, delivering the first Speech from the Throne and inaugurating the legislative body that continues to convene there. Following , King , who had ascended the throne in 1921, consolidated monarchical power. In 1973, he repealed the , dissolved temporarily, and prohibited , establishing an that emphasized traditional Swazi institutions centered in Lobamba. This period saw the construction of key structures, including the Parliament building in Lobamba, symbolizing the blend of modern legislative functions with royal oversight. 's reign, lasting until his death in 1982, remains the longest recorded for any monarch, during which Lobamba hosted royal ceremonies and national commemorations, such as the King Sobhuza II Memorial Park established as a tribute to his leadership in achieving . Upon Sobhuza II's death, a regency council governed until 1986, when his son, , was crowned king at age 18. Under , Lobamba has retained its status as the legislative capital and site of royal residences, including the Embo State Palace. The Parliament in Lobamba operates within the Tinkhundla system, a non-party-based electoral framework introduced in the 1970s, where the king appoints half the members and holds veto power. In modern developments, announcements of national infrastructure projects, such as those valued at over E100 million in rural enhancements, have been made from Lobamba, reinforcing its administrative prominence. In 2018, King decreed the name change from Swaziland to , proclaimed during the 50th independence celebrations in Lobamba, aligning the country's nomenclature with its indigenous SiSwati language.

Government and Royal Authority

Legislative Role and Parliament

The of , the kingdom's bicameral legislature, convenes in Lobamba, which functions as the legislative capital alongside its role as the traditional seat of royal authority. Established under the 2006 Constitution, it comprises the House of Assembly as the lower chamber and the as the upper chamber, with legislative authority vested in the "." This structure reflects the monarchy's dominance, where the King holds ultimate executive, legislative, and judicial powers, including the requirement for on all bills. The House of Assembly consists of 55 members elected every five years through the non-partisan Tinkhundla system, involving primaries and general elections in single-member constituencies, plus 10 members appointed by the King from among the Failed Candidates or other qualified persons, and the Speaker who may or may not hold voting status. The includes 10 members elected by the House of Assembly—prioritizing women to ensure at least half—and 20 appointed by the King, often including traditional leaders and additional women to promote gender balance, totaling up to 31 members. are prohibited from participating in elections, ensuring alignment with royal and traditional governance. Parliament's primary legislative role involves introducing, debating, and passing bills on matters like taxation, budgets, and national development, which must originate in the House of Assembly except for money bills. Both chambers review and amend legislation, exercise oversight through committees on executive actions and public accounts, and deliberate the national budget, but all enactments require the King's assent; he may withhold it, refer bills back for reconsideration, or prorogue or dissolve at discretion. This framework positions Parliament as an advisory and representational body subordinate to the , facilitating traditional Swazi governance rather than independent democratic . Sessions occur periodically in Lobamba's parliamentary buildings, with recent activities including tabling of ministry reports and bills as of July 2025.

Monarchical Institutions and Succession

The monarchical institutions of are anchored in Lobamba, particularly at the , which serves as the primary residence of the and hosts key traditional governance structures. The embodies the executive authority in this , wielding supreme power over legislative, executive, and judicial functions, while ruling through appointed chiefs and councils. Complementing this is the , the queen mother, who assumes a parallel spiritual and ceremonial role, residing nearby at Phondvo and leading the women's council on customary matters. Central to these institutions is the Liqoqo, the King's Advisory Council, constitutionally mandated to counsel the Ngwenyama on national affairs and adjudicate disputes under Swazi law and custom in collaboration with the Ludzidzini Council. Established under the 2005 Constitution, the Liqoqo comprises senior princes and advisors appointed by the king, ensuring continuity of traditional oversight amid limited modern reforms. Succession to the adheres to hereditary principles outlined in the 2005 but is predominantly regulated by Swazi , eschewing strict in favor of selection by traditional authorities. Upon the throne's vacancy, the Liqoqo and other elders identify an eligible successor from the late king's sons, prioritizing those of specific maternal lineage, moral character, and ritual suitability through a secretive process. This custom, deferring to pre-colonial practices, was applied in the ascension of on April 25, 1986, following a four-year regency after Sobhuza II's death on August 21, 1982. The process underscores the monarchy's reliance on unwritten traditions over codified rules, with the explicitly yielding to custom for determination and declaration of the heir.

Traditional Governance Structures

Lobamba functions as the epicenter of 's traditional governance, integrating monarchical authority with clan-based chieftaincy in a system parallel to modern institutions. The , or king, wields absolute power as , ruling by decree since the 1973 suspension of the and reinforced by the 2005 document that upholds Swazi and . This structure emphasizes the king's role in unifying over 70 clans under the royal lineage, with local chiefs enforcing customary practices on , , and social order. Key advisory mechanisms include the Liqo, an inner council of royal princes and trusted advisors that deliberates on succession and high-level policy, often convening in royal villages like Ludzidzini within Lobamba. The Libandla leNkhosatinkhundla, or Council of Chiefs, comprises senior chiefs who advise on national matters and represent traditional interests, bridging local hierarchies to the . Complementing these is the Sibaya, the annual national assembly held in Lobamba's royal enclosures, where the king addresses the populace directly, serving as the highest traditional policy forum equivalent to the people's libandla. The Ndlovukazi, or , resides at in Lobamba, embodying spiritual leadership and exercising influence during regencies or rituals, such as selecting royal wives. This underscores causal continuity from pre-colonial Swazi polities, where authority derived from ancestral legitimacy and clan consensus rather than electoral mandates. Tinkhundla centers, while nominally decentralizing power, reinforce traditional chiefs' roles in local administration, ensuring the system's resilience amid modern pressures.

Infrastructure and Public Services

Transportation and Connectivity

Lobamba's transportation infrastructure relies predominantly on a network of paved roads linking it to Eswatini's major urban centers, including to the north and to the southeast. The primary access route follows the MR3 highway through the Ezulwini Valley, facilitating vehicular travel for residents and visitors; this road forms part of Eswatini's 1,500 km national road network, which supports connectivity despite occasional construction delays, such as those reported on the Manzini-Mbadlane stretch leading toward . The nearest airport is (SHO), situated approximately 25 km southeast of Lobamba near , serving as the country's main international gateway with flights from regional hubs like . Ground transport from the airport includes shuttle services operated by companies such as Melula Travel, which provide direct transfers to Lobamba and the adjacent Ezulwini area, taking about 1 hour and 16 minutes for a fare of around $64; taxis and private transfers are also available, though no direct public bus links exist from the airport terminal. Public transportation within and to Lobamba consists mainly of minibuses known as kombis, which operate on fixed routes from and , offering affordable fares around 0.78 USD for a one-way ticket but often facing overcrowding and reliability issues. , accessible via apps like Leap, provide on-demand service for shorter trips, while self-driving remains the preferred option for flexibility given the limited and sometimes unsafe nature of bus services; no rail or dedicated airport shuttle infrastructure serves Lobamba directly.

Education Facilities

Lobamba is home to four principal schools, comprising two primary institutions and two secondary high schools that serve the administrative capital's residents, civil servants, and surrounding communities. These facilities provide foundational and intermediate education aligned with , where primary schooling spans seven years (up to Standard 7) and covers five years (Forms 1–5), culminating in the Eswatini General (EGCSE) examinations administered by the Examination Council of Eswatini. Lobamba National supports early for local students and has excelled in inter-school , notably contributing to regional successes in under-13 categories. St. Mary's , operated under the Catholic of , offers primary-level instruction with contact details indicating its established presence (PO Box 120, Lobamba; telephone +268 2416 1868). At the secondary level, Lobamba National High School enrolls students for Forms 1–5 and fields competitive teams in national and continental school championships, including triumphs in the 2025 EFA/CAF African Schools Championships alongside Mjingo High School. It recorded 426 EGCSE candidates in recent examinations, reflecting a substantial student body. St. Mary's High School (PO Box 54, Lobamba; telephone +268 2416 1868), also Catholic-affiliated, emphasizes and has shone in , particularly girls' under-19 football leagues. No tertiary or vocational institutions are located directly within Lobamba; higher education access relies on nearby facilities such as the University of Eswatini's Campus, approximately 15 kilometers away, which hosts programs in health sciences and but serves a broader regional intake rather than Lobamba-specific enrollment.

Healthcare and Welfare Systems

Lobamba's healthcare infrastructure primarily consists of public and private clinics catering to the local population and administrative staff, supplemented by proximity to larger facilities in the Ezulwini Valley. The Lobamba Health Centre provides essential services including general medicine, pediatrics, and basic surgery, serving the community's primary care needs amid Eswatini's national challenges with high prevalence and rates. Lobamba Clinic offers outpatient care with emphasis on professional staff support, while the nearby Satellite Clinic focuses on accessible maternal and child health services. Ezulwini Private Hospital, situated in the Lobamba vicinity along the MR103 road, functions as a key private provider with specialized services and a team-oriented approach to care, reflecting Eswatini's mixed public-private model where over 40% of the seeks private options due to limitations in public capacity. Nationally, the Ministry of Health oversees policy and delivery, but local facilities in Lobamba face supply chain issues, as evidenced by reports of incomplete medical drug deliveries to government suppliers in the area as of October 2025. Welfare systems in Lobamba are administered through the Lobamba Inkhundla Service Centre, one of Eswatini's four regional hubs delivering , social grants, and support for vulnerable groups, including orphans and the elderly. At the national level, the operates fragmented social assistance programs without a unified system, providing , , and survivor pensions that cover about 36% of the population excluding health benefits, with recent 2025 budget increases aimed at protecting the vulnerable amid economic pressures. The Ministry of Health and Social Welfare integrates some welfare with health delivery, though coverage gaps persist, particularly for non-contributory benefits in rural-adjacent areas like Lobamba.

Security and Law Enforcement

The Royal Eswatini Police Service (REPS) serves as the primary in , operating a dedicated to address local crimes and maintain public order. The station, located in the Ezulwini Valley area, responds to incidents such as thefts; for instance, on October 12, 2025, at 0700 hours, Lobamba police initiated an investigation into the theft of E58,000 from a 58-year-old woman. REPS reports directly to the Prime Minister's office, with national responsibilities encompassing internal security, though localized operations in Lobamba focus on routine policing amid the area's role as the legislative and traditional capital. Security in Lobamba is bolstered by the proximity of royal residences and parliamentary buildings, where REPS coordinates with other uniformed forces for protection duties, including ceremonial events and cash transport operations authorized under national law. An adjacent Ezulwini Police Post provides supplementary coverage in the region. However, the force faces internal challenges, including financial strains on junior s that have contributed to a rise in suicides, with a Lobamba officer among those affected in 2025. Broader critiques of Eswatini's , applicable to Lobamba operations, highlight ongoing issues such as of suspects by officers and a lack of independent investigations into such misconduct, as documented in international assessments. These concerns underscore limitations in accountability within REPS, despite its mandate to enforce laws uniformly across the kingdom.

Cultural Heritage and Attractions

National Museum and Archives

The National Museum of Eswatini, established in 1972 and situated adjacent to the Houses of Parliament in Lobamba, serves as the primary repository for the kingdom's cultural and natural heritage. Its permanent exhibitions trace EmaSwati history from the Stone Age through colonial periods to independence in 1968, featuring artifacts such as traditional tools, clothing, and weaponry alongside life-size dioramas of warriors and domestic scenes. Natural history displays include mounted specimens and habitat reconstructions illustrating Eswatini's biodiversity, such as savannas and wetlands populated by endemic species. A reconstructed traditional beehive village and cattle enclosure outside the museum building demonstrate pre-colonial Swazi architecture and agrarian practices, emphasizing the continuity of monarchical and communal structures. The 's significance lies in its role as an educational tool for preserving Swazi identity amid modernization, with temporary halls hosting thematic exhibits on topics like royal regalia and indigenous crafts to promote national unity. It operates under the National Trust Commission, which oversees conservation efforts, including a workshop and storage facilities expanded in 1986 to handle growing collections of historical vehicles from the mid-20th century linked to family. Visitor access is available weekdays from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., with entry fees supporting maintenance, though critiques note limited interactive elements compared to international standards. Adjacent to the , the National Archives, formalized by the Archives Act of 1971, functions as the central repository for governmental and historical , housing original documents, maps, and audio-visual materials dating back to the pre-independence era. Located along the Mbabane-Manzini road opposite Somhlolo National Stadium, it provides public reading rooms for researchers examining topics from colonial administration to post-1968 sovereignty transitions. The archives prioritize initiatives, as highlighted during National Archives Day on October 22, 2025, to enhance accessibility for and while safeguarding against physical degradation. Operated by the National Archives and Records Service, the institution mandates preservation of public records under legal frameworks, enabling verification of historical claims such as disputes rooted in 19th-century concessions. Its collections underscore causal links between archival evidence and Eswatini's , countering narratives of uninterrupted tradition by documenting influences from 1903 to 1968. Events like the 2025 commemoration emphasized archives' role in countering through empirical records, with panel discussions advocating broader digital outreach.

Royal Memorials and Parks

The King Memorial Park, located in Lobamba opposite the National Parliament, serves as a national monument dedicated to commemorating the life and legacy of King , who reigned from 1899 to 1982 and led to independence from British rule in 1968. The park was officially opened on 13 May 1994, initiated by King Mswati III, and is managed by the Eswatini National Trust Commission. Key features include a 3-meter of the king, his , and a small exhibiting artifacts related to his and Swazi heritage. The site, supported in its development by the Taiwanese government, provides landscaped gardens suitable for public events such as weddings and picnics. It operates from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday, emphasizing its role in preserving royal history amid Lobamba's monarchical institutions.

Nearby Natural and Wildlife Sites

Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary, situated in the Ezulwini Valley adjacent to Lobamba, spans 4,560 hectares and serves as Eswatini's pioneering conservation area, established in 1961 by to protect declining wildlife species. The sanctuary features diverse habitats including , wetlands, and mountains, supporting populations of , , , , Nile crocodiles, and over 300 bird species, while intentionally excluding large predators to enable safe pedestrian access. Visitors can engage in guided walks, hiking trails, game drives, , horseback riding, , and in natural rock pools, with educational programs at the on-site highlighting conservation efforts that have saved over 22 species from . Mantenga Nature Reserve, located just two kilometers from major roads in a secluded part of the Ezulwini Valley near Lobamba, covers 725 hectares and is managed by the National Trust Commission. The reserve offers short hiking trails leading to scenic waterfalls and picnic areas, amid forests and rocky outcrops inhabited by smaller mammals such as baboons, vervet monkeys, duikers, rock , porcupines, and various bird species. These trails provide opportunities for nature observation and light wildlife viewing, complementing the area's emphasis on preserving indigenous flora and geological features within the valley's middleveld .

Traditional Events and Ceremonies

Incwala National Ceremony

The is the preeminent ritual of kingship in , encompassing themes of national purification, renewal of royal authority, and the symbolic incorporation of the first harvest, though its scope extends far beyond mere agricultural celebration to affirm the Ngwenyama's (king's) spiritual and temporal power. This ceremony, preserved for centuries as one of Africa's few intact pre-colonial traditions, unites the nation through regimented participation and secretive rites, underscoring the Swazi people's cultural cohesion under monarchical leadership. Held at the Ezulwini Valley's Ludzidzini Royal Residence in Lobamba, the administrative and spiritual heart of the kingdom, Incwala unfolds in two principal phases aligned with lunar cycles near the summer solstice. The Little Incwala occurs around the full moon in late December, involving preliminary dances and rituals, while the Great Incwala follows approximately 14 days later, spanning six days into early January, with exact dates determined by ancestral astronomical observations and announced shortly beforehand. Rituals commence with bemanti (royal heralds) fetching sacred sea foam from the at kaTembe (near , ) and river water from northern streams during the , returning by the new moon to initiate purification. In the Little Incwala, unmarried male regiments (emabutfo) harvest lusekwane branches (from ) under moonlight, weaving them into symbolic enclosures. The Great Incwala escalates with a 50-kilometer march on Day 1 to gather additional imbondvo branches ( apiculatum), followed by the ritual slaughter of black oxen, feasting on emahewane (a of ), and a gourd-throwing pageant on Day 4; enforces communal from , , and ; and Day 6 culminates in the burning of objects to sever ties with the old year. These acts, blending public pageantry with private esoterica, prohibit in sacred areas and require visitor permits, reflecting the ceremony's sanctity. The Ngwenyama plays an indispensable role, emerging from seclusion to taste the inaugural harvest, don war attire for dances affirming his prowess, and oversee the rites' efficacy, as the ceremony's validity hinges on his presence—absence of a king precludes entirely. Regiments execute martial displays and resource gathering, fostering discipline and loyalty, while the event as a whole reinforces Swazi identity against modernity, drawing tens of thousands to Lobamba for its blend of antiquity and national holiday status on the main day.

Umhlanga Reed Dance

The Umhlanga Reed Dance, known locally as Umhlanga, is an annual Swazi cultural ceremony held at the Ludzidzini Royal Residence in Lobamba, , typically spanning eight days from late August to early September. Young Swazi women, referred to as imbali or maidens, aged approximately 14 to 25 and unmarried without children, participate by cutting reeds from nearby swamps, bundling an odd number of them, and presenting the bundles to the Queen Mother () for use in repairing windbreaks around the royal enclosures. The event culminates in a mass dance performance before the Queen Mother and , where participants wear traditional attire including colorful sashes, ankle rattles, and feathers, singing and chanting to demonstrate unity, respect for the , and commitment to chastity. The emphasizes moral and cultural preservation, with participants instructed on Swazi , , and from prior to the event; virginity testing by community elders is conducted to verify eligibility, though this practice has drawn international scrutiny for potential violations. Up to 40,000 maidens have taken part in recent years, making it one of Africa's largest traditional gatherings, alongside thousands of spectators including tourists; for instance, the 2025 edition attracted over 34,500 visitors, a 5.8% increase from the prior year. King formally summons the participants annually, as seen in the 2025 call via government announcement. Originating as an adaptation of the older Umchwasho custom under King Sobhuza II in the 1940s, Umhlanga also carries spiritual dimensions as a rainmaking ritual and marker of the Swazi indigenous new year, reinforcing communal bonds and national identity amid modernization pressures. The main dance day is declared a public holiday, with the 2025 event scheduled for September 8 following registration on September 2 and reed-cutting on September 3.

Other Cultural Festivals

The Butimba ceremony, a traditional royal expedition, serves as a key cultural event in , complementing major ceremonies like and Umhlanga by emphasizing leadership, environmental stewardship, and regimental discipline. Held annually in late over approximately 11 days, it involves King Mswati III commissioning regiments (libutfo) from royal residences in the Lobamba area to conduct controlled vegetation burning (kushisa tikhotse), , and symbolic hunts that promote sustainable use of natural resources. The term "Butimba," meaning "hunting expedition" in siSwati, originates from historical royal hunts that demonstrated the monarch's prowess and provision for the nation, evolving to incorporate modern conservation practices such as allowing vegetation regeneration and restricting overhunting. Key rituals include the king's personal marches with regiments, such as a 26-kilometer trek on the final day to sites like Hlane Royal National Park, where orders are issued for proceedings that reinforce cultural transmission to younger generations. Participants perform traditional dances and receive directives on ethical hunting, underscoring the ceremony's role in national pride and unity under the monarchy. While not exclusively confined to Lobamba, the event's commissioning and initial phases occur under royal oversight from the area's palaces, linking it to the site's status as Eswatini's spiritual and political center. In 2025, the ceremony highlighted themes of heritage preservation, with the king stressing its broader significance beyond hunting to include cultural and ecological balance.

Socio-Political Controversies

Pro-Democracy Protests and Monarchy Critiques

Pro-democracy protests in intensified in 2021, with demonstrators targeting the inefficacy of parliamentary processes centered in Lobamba, the kingdom's legislative capital. Sparked by the death of law student Thabani Nkomonye in police custody on May 22, 2021, and exacerbated by a proposed parliamentary bill to criminalize online petitions perceived as threats to royal authority, protests spread nationwide starting June 20. In Lobamba, the House of Assembly became a focal point for critiques of the 's dominance over legislative functions, where elected members operate without and face royal power. The government's response involved deploying security forces and military units, leading to at least 46 protester deaths, hundreds of injuries, and an shutdown to curb mobilization. Protesters demanded constitutional reforms to diminish King Mswati III's absolute powers, including his authority to appoint the , dissolve , and override laws passed in Lobamba. Human rights organizations documented excessive force, arbitrary arrests, and , attributing these to the monarchy's intolerance of dissent. Critiques of the monarchy emphasize its role in perpetuating political exclusion and . Since ascending in 1986, King has ruled by decree in Africa's last , banning opposition parties and enforcing sedition laws that criminalize criticism of the throne. Analysts point to royal land acquisitions and lavish expenditures—such as private jets and luxury vehicles—amid widespread , with over 58% of the below the poverty line and youth unemployment exceeding 50%. These grievances, voiced through protests and exiled activists, argue that the system's causal structure prioritizes monarchical prerogative over accountable governance, stifling economic diversification reliant on Lobamba's administrative institutions. Subsequent unrest in 2022 and 2023 reinforced these demands, including the January 2023 assassination of lawyer , a prominent for who had publicly challenged royal impunity. Despite government claims of maintaining stability through tradition, empirical reports from multiple observers highlight persistent suppression, with no independent investigations into protest-related abuses. Parliamentary sessions in Lobamba continue under royal oversight, underscoring protesters' contention that superficial elections fail to address monarchical centralization of power.

Human Rights and Suppression Allegations

In June 2021, pro-democracy protests erupted across , including marches toward government institutions in Lobamba, the seat of , demanding political reforms and an end to the absolute monarchy's suppression of . responded with excessive lethal force, , and , resulting in at least 46 deaths, hundreds of injuries, and over 200 arrests, according to reports from monitors. These events followed a petition allowing political party registration, which the government swiftly moved to overturn, escalating tensions in the political center of Lobamba. No government officials or security personnel have faced accountability for the 2021 crackdown, with investigations stalled and impunity persisting for unlawful killings and torture allegations. Human Rights Watch documented cases of protesters shot at close range and homes of activists raided without warrants, underscoring a pattern of state repression centered on quelling dissent against the monarchy's control over legislative processes in Lobamba. In April 2025, authorities blocked a planned protest march to the parliament building in Lobamba, with King Mswati III's sister, Regional Administrator Tsandzile, issuing orders to prohibit amid demands for democratic reforms. This incident reflects ongoing restrictions on , enforced through royal and administrative decrees originating from the traditional power structures around Lobamba. Broader suppression tactics include the application of the 2008 Suppression of Terrorism Act to prosecute dissidents, with the Eswatini Supreme Court upholding its repressive provisions in August 2024 despite high court challenges deeming them unconstitutional. The law has been used to detain former parliamentarians and activists without trial for extended periods, as seen in the 2024 sentencing of MPs Bacede Mabuza and Mduduzi Simelane to lengthy prison terms for alleged terrorism linked to pro-reform advocacy. has labeled such detainees prisoners of conscience, highlighting the misuse of judicial processes tied to the Lobamba-based to silence opposition. The U.S. State Department's 2024 human rights report notes credible allegations of arbitrary arrests targeting political activists near sites, including in detention and restrictions on media coverage of protests, contributing to a climate of fear around political expression in Lobamba. While the maintains these measures protect , independent monitors attribute them to efforts to preserve monarchical dominance over the legislative and vested in Lobamba.

Economic Inequality Linked to Royal Influence

Eswatini displays one of the world's highest levels of income inequality, with a Gini coefficient of 54.6 as reported by multiple international assessments. This metric, derived from household survey data, underscores a stark divide where a small elite captures disproportionate economic gains amid widespread deprivation. National poverty stands at 58.9 percent of the population living below the poverty line, based on 2016/17 surveys, with limited subsequent reductions despite economic growth in sectors like sugar exports and textiles. In Lobamba, the traditional and legislative capital housing the royal residence and parliament, this inequality manifests acutely due to the monarchy's centralized authority over fiscal and resource decisions. King Mswati III, who ascended in , oversees an that controls key economic levers, including substantial state-owned enterprises and land allocations traditionally vested in . Annual government budget allocations to the king and royal family exceed E1 billion (approximately USD 55-60 million), representing about 3 percent of the national budget as of the 2023/24 and 2025/26 fiscal years. These funds, categorized under royal emoluments and , support expenditures such as palace maintenance in Lobamba and surrounding areas, procurement of luxury vehicles like Rolls-Royces and Maybachs, and international travel, often documented in local and international reports. The causal linkage arises from the monarchy's unchecked influence on budget priorities, where royal outlays persist even as public services deteriorate and youth unemployment reaches 56 percent in 2023. Pro-democracy advocates, including groups like the People's United Democratic Movement, contend that this diverts resources from infrastructure and social programs, perpetuating a cycle where royal patronage sustains elite loyalty at the expense of broad-based development—though such critiques emanate from opposition sources potentially motivated by political reform agendas. Empirical indicators, such as stagnant poverty reduction despite GDP per capita above USD 3,800, suggest inefficient resource allocation under monarchical oversight, with IMF analyses noting procyclical fiscal policies that favor short-term elite benefits over redistributive measures. In Lobamba's vicinity, visible contrasts include opulent royal events against rural subsistence farming, highlighting how royal economic dominance impedes merit-based growth and exacerbates Gini disparities.

References

  1. https://www.cia.gov/the-world-factbook/about/archives/2023/countries/eswatini/
  2. https://parliament.gov.sz/
  3. https://www.sadc.int/member-states/kingdom-eswatini
  4. https://www.thekingdomofeswatini.com/central-eswatini/lobamba/
  5. https://www.worldatlas.com/articles/what-is-the-capital-of-swaziland.html
  6. https://au.int/en/cities/lobambaroyal-and-legislative-mbabane-administrative
  7. https://www.swaziland-info.co.za/country/town/710/lobamba
  8. https://www.nationsonline.org/oneworld/map/google_map_Lobamba.htm
  9. https://www.ebsco.com/research-starters/geography-and-cartography/mbabane-eswatini
  10. https://www.thekingdomofeswatini.com/central-eswatini/ezulwini-valley/
  11. https://datacommons.org/ranking/Count_Person/City/country/SWZ
  12. https://places-in-the-world.com/eswatini/lobamba/935048
  13. https://www.gov.sz/images/planningministry/Volume-3-1.pdf
  14. https://www.britannica.com/place/Eswatini
  15. https://www.un.int/eswatini/swaziland/country-facts
  16. https://sahistory.org.za/sites/default/files/archive-files3/philip_bonner_kings_commoners_and_concessionairbook4you.pdf
  17. https://sahistory.org.za/place/eswatini-formerly-swaziland
  18. https://www.historyfiles.co.uk/KingListsAfrica/AfricaSwaziProtectorate.htm
  19. https://sahistory.org.za/sites/default/files/archive-files/d._hugh_gillis_the_kingdom_of_swaziland_studiesbook4you.pdf
  20. https://libsysdigi.library.illinois.edu/ilharvest/Africana/Books2011-05/469190/469190_1938/469190_1938_opt.pdf
  21. https://adst.org/2017/05/lion-king-swaziland/
  22. https://www.jstor.org/stable/48778830
  23. https://www.unofficialroyalty.com/king-sobhuza-ii-of-swaziland/
  24. https://parliament.gov.sz/about/stateopening/
  25. https://worldhistoryedu.com/history-and-major-facts-about-eswatini/
  26. https://www.bbc.com/news/world-africa-14095303
  27. https://eswatinipositivenews.online/infrastructure-boom-major-projects-to-shape-eswatinis-future/
  28. https://parliament.gov.sz/about/background/
  29. https://www.kas.de/documents/285576/11521648/MLHSA%2B2021%2B-%2B6%2BeSwatini.pdf/2098988d-e0fd-b664-4981-dba3cc4a349b?t=1612258527763
  30. https://2009-2017.state.gov/documents/organization/160146.pdf
  31. https://data.ipu.org/parliament/SZ/SZ-LC01/basic/contact-details
  32. https://parliament.gov.sz/media/news/readmore.php?indzaba=Tabling%2520of%2520First%2520Quarter%2520Reports%2520for%2520Ministry%27s%2520and%2520Bills&nini=2025-07-09&yiphi=138
  33. https://eswatinikualalumpur.org/governance/
  34. https://www.trailblazertravelz.com/country_profiles/eswatini/
  35. https://www.constituteproject.org/constitution/Swaziland_2005
  36. http://www.swazilandnews.co.za/fundza.php?nguyiphi=7880
  37. https://www.saflii.org/za/journals/DEJURE/2019/8.pdf
  38. https://www.bbc.com/news/world-africa-14095711
  39. http://www.scielo.org.za/scielo.php?script=sci_arttext&pid=S2225-71602019000100004
  40. http://www.clgf.org.uk/default/assets/File/Country_profiles/Swaziland.pdf
  41. https://bti-project.org/fileadmin/api/content/en/downloads/reports/country_report_2022_SWZ.pdf
  42. http://www.swazilandnews.co.za/fundza.php?nguyiphi=2772
  43. https://www.gov.sz/index.php/component/content/category/106-about-us/94-about-us?Itemid=624
  44. https://www.commonwealthportal.org/country/kingdom-of-eswatini/
  45. https://library.au.int/local-governance-and-traditional-authority-kingdom-eswatini-evolving-tinkhundla-regime
  46. https://www.hauniversity.org/en/Swaziland.shtml
  47. https://www.kmiiiairport.co.sz/index.php/transportanddirections/
  48. https://www.rome2rio.com/s/King-Mswati-III-International-Airport/Lobamba
  49. https://www.rome2rio.com/s/Johannesburg-Airport-JNB/Lobamba
  50. https://www.thekingdomofeswatini.com/how-to-get-around/
  51. https://scratchyourmapa.com/how-to-get-around-in-eswatini/
  52. https://pineqone.com/destinations/lobamba/
  53. https://swaziland268.rssing.com/chan-22120996/article26004.html?nocache=0
  54. https://www.dioceseofmanzini.org/lobamba/
  55. https://www.times.co.sz/sports/readmore.php?bhsadjgfoh=Lobamba%2BNational%252C%2BMjingo%2Btriumph%2Bin%2BCAF%2BSchools%2BChampionships&yiphi=1452&bvhdgsj=Sports
  56. https://www.examscouncil.org.sz/results-and-statistics/hhohho.php?cert=10
  57. https://www.uneswa.ac.sz/about/campuses/
  58. https://www.bestcardiachospitals.com/blog/top-20-best-hospitals-in-eswatini/
  59. https://www.surgeryplanet.com/blog/top-20-best-hospitals-of-eswatini/
  60. https://dima-health.com/listing/lobamba-clini/
  61. https://dima-health.com/listing/satellite-clinic/
  62. https://www.cerbalancetafrica.com/locate-a-lab/eswatini/ezulwini-private-hospital/
  63. https://eph-sz.com/
  64. https://www.ahb.co.ke/wp-content/uploads/2021/09/Country-Snapshot_Eswatini.pdf
  65. https://www.gov.sz/index.php/ministries-departments/ministry-of-health
  66. https://www.facebook.com/independentnewseswatini/posts/lobamba-eight-companies-supplying-medical-drugs-and-equipment-to-government-have/1370547145081592/
  67. https://www.facebook.com/61553570325966/posts/today-we-visited-lobamba-inkhundla-service-centre-where-we-appreciated-the-criti/122170298006119010/
  68. https://thedocs.worldbank.org/en/doc/266201cdedf8f28c6406e3674e00f01c-0380022021/original/2106.pdf
  69. https://eswatinipositivenews.online/building-a-stronger-eswatini-a-budget-for-all/
  70. https://www.social-protection.org/gimi/ShowCountryProfile.action%3Bjsessionid=ujTBT-zzOHTUm0nTvtjTUyqGAEJEkZoeb2grHpM-wSR5c-f4Y3lR%212012212631?iso=SZ
  71. https://www.interpol.int/en/Who-we-are/Member-countries/Africa/ESWATINI
  72. http://www.swazidirectory.co.sz/index.php/general-information/emergency-numbers/police-station-and-posts
  73. https://www.facebook.com/RoyalEswatiniPoliceService/photos/lobamba-police-have-launched-an-investigation-into-the-theft-of-e58-000-00-follo/1163789162553583/
  74. https://eswatinipositivenews.online/pm-defends-police-cash-transport-role/
  75. https://www.cybo.com/SZ/lobamba/police-and-law-enforcement/
  76. http://www.swazilandnews.co.za/fundza.php?nguyiphi=9610
  77. https://freedomhouse.org/country/eswatini/freedom-world/2018
  78. https://www.state.gov/reports/2022-country-reports-on-human-rights-practices/eswatini
  79. http://eswatinibiodiversity.com/cultural/museum.php
  80. https://entc.org.sz/eswatini-national-museum/
  81. https://wildernessexplorersafrica.com/african-safari-destinations/eswatini-safari-tours-holidays/lobamba-tourist-hub-eswatini/
  82. https://momaa.org/directory/swaziland-national-museum/
  83. https://www.thekingdomofeswatini.com/eswatini-experiences/culture/museums-history/
  84. http://eswatinibiodiversity.com/tourism/museum_tourism.php
  85. https://history.state.gov/countries/archives/swaziland
  86. https://www.familysearch.org/en/wiki/Eswatini_Archives_and_Libraries
  87. https://eswatinipositivenews.online/eswatini-celebrates-national-archives-day-promotes-digital-access-to-history/
  88. https://ena.gov.sz/about/organisation.php
  89. https://www.pressreader.com/eswatini/times-of-eswatini/20251024/281861534733095
  90. https://entc.org.sz/king-sobhuza-ii-park/
  91. https://www.lonelyplanet.com/eswatini-swaziland/lobamba/attractions/king-sobhuza-ii-memorial-park/a/poi-sig/1202998/1001277
  92. https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g480241-d12590912-Reviews-King_Sobusha_II_Memorial_Park-Lobamba_Hhohho_District.html
  93. http://eswatinibiodiversity.com/tourism/king_sobhuza_park_tourism.asp
  94. https://biggameparks.org/properties/mlilwane-wildlife-sanctuary-2
  95. https://www.wildlifeworldwide.com/locations/mlilwane-wildlife-sanctuary
  96. http://eswatinibiodiversity.com/nature_reserves/mantenga.asp
  97. https://www.thekingdomofeswatini.com/central-eswatini/mantenga-reserve-village-falls/
  98. https://entc.org.sz/incwala-ceremony/
  99. https://www.thekingdomofeswatini.com/eswatini-experiences/events/incwala-festival/
  100. https://entc.org.sz/umhlanga-the-reed-dance/
  101. https://www.thekingdomofeswatini.com/eswatini-experiences/events/umhlanga-reed-dance/
  102. https://www.peacecorps.gov/eswatini/stories/umhlanga-reed-dance-swaziland/
  103. https://entc.org.sz/umhlanga-reed-dance-ceremony-dates-announced/
  104. https://www.thekingdomofeswatini.com/news-blogs/umhlanga-reed-dance-welcomes-rise-in-visitor-numbers/
  105. https://swazidailynews.com/archives/2864
  106. https://www.theguardian.com/global-development/2016/sep/22/swaziland-reed-dance-cultural-celebration-or-sleazy-royal-ritual-umhlanga
  107. https://senseearth.co.uk/blog/reed-dance-or-umhlanga-in-eswatini/
  108. https://www.facebook.com/EswatiniGov/posts/his-majesty-king-mswati-iii-has-summoned-young-maidens-imbali-to-partake-in-the-/1056178350038834/
  109. https://eswatiniobserver.com/umhlanga-the-reed-dance-indigenous-new-year-and-rainmaking-tradition/
  110. https://www.travelandtourworld.com/news/article/eswatini-announces-official-dates-for-this-years-umhlanga-reed-dance-celebrating-its-culture-and-tradition/
  111. https://eswatinipositivenews.online/what-is-butimba-eswatinis-royal-hunt-explained/
  112. https://eswatiniobserver.com/butimba-ceremony-is-a-source-of-national-pride-chief-ndlaluhlaza/
  113. https://eswatinipositivenews.online/king-highlights-butimba-as-celebration-of-culture-and-environment/
  114. https://www.facebook.com/TimesofEswatini/posts/let-the-wild-thrive-on-day-six-of-the-butimba-ceremony-his-majesty-king-mswati-i/1312274847566065/
  115. https://eswatiniobserver.com/butimba-ends-on-a-high-with-king-mswati-iii-leading-26km-march/
  116. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p8U21vmDBt4
  117. https://www.facebook.com/EswatiniTourism/posts/national-events-butimba-ceremony-his-majesty-king-mswati-iii-commissioned-emabut/1292115032957422/
  118. https://commonslibrary.parliament.uk/research-briefings/cbp-9316/
  119. https://www.hrw.org/news/2023/06/26/eswatini-still-no-justice-2021-violence
  120. https://freedomhouse.org/country/eswatini/freedom-world/2017
  121. https://www.amnesty.org/en/latest/campaigns/2021/11/eswatini-the-system-is-broken/
  122. https://www.state.gov/reports/2021-country-reports-on-human-rights-practices/eswatini
  123. https://www.hrw.org/world-report/2022/country-chapters/eswatini
  124. https://www.npr.org/2021/07/16/1016031822/pro-democracy-protests-continue-in-eswatini-africas-last-absolute-monarchy
  125. https://www.icij.org/investigations/swazi-secrets/in-eswatini-africas-last-absolute-monarchy-bucolic-landscapes-belie-a-darker-underbelly/
  126. http://www.vanguardafrica.com/africawatch/2021/10/14/stand-with-the-swazi-people-bravely-demanding-democracy
  127. https://www.hrw.org/world-report/2024/country-chapters/eswatini
  128. https://www.accord.org.za/conflict-trends/eswatinis-june-2021-protests-revisited-understanding-political-violence-in-eswatini/
  129. https://www.nytimes.com/2021/07/02/us/africa-monarchy-eswatini-protests-swaziland.html
  130. https://hsf.org.za/publications/hsf-briefs/human-rights-violations-in-the-kingdom-of-eswatini
  131. https://www.hrw.org/news/2021/11/02/eswatini-no-justice-june-protester-killings
  132. https://monitor.civicus.org/explore/authorities-block-planned-protest/
  133. https://www.hrw.org/news/2024/08/16/eswatini-supreme-court-rubber-stamps-repression
  134. https://www.hrw.org/news/2024/07/18/former-eswatini-parliamentarians-sentenced-long-prison-terms
  135. https://www.amnestyusa.org/press-releases/eswatini-amnesty-international-designates-arbitrarily-detained-mps-as-prisoners-of-conscience/
  136. https://www.state.gov/reports/2024-country-reports-on-human-rights-practices/eswatini
  137. https://www.amnesty.org/en/latest/news/2024/08/eswatini-major-setback-as-supreme-court-upholds-repressive-suppression-of-terrorism-act/
  138. https://www.cia.gov/the-world-factbook/field/gini-index-coefficient-distribution-of-family-income/country-comparison/
  139. https://www.worldbank.org/en/country/eswatini/overview
  140. https://pip.worldbank.org/country-profiles/SWZ
  141. https://documents.worldbank.org/pt/publication/documents-reports/documentdetail/099454004222529791
  142. https://inhlase.com/eswatini-royalty-receives-a-whopping-e1-038bn-budget/
  143. https://swazibridge.com/article/index.php?iywtrre=e1Wt
  144. https://inhlase.com/king-mswatis-e1-074bn-amid-collapsing-public-services/
  145. https://www.afdb.org/en/countries/southern-africa/eswatini/eswatini-economic-outlook
  146. https://www.elibrary.imf.org/view/journals/002/2023/160/article-A001-en.xml
Add your contribution
Related Hubs
User Avatar
No comments yet.