Photo Credit: www.trekearth.com
Photo Credit: www.thekingdomofswaziland.com
Photo Credit: mm-travel-solutions.com
The Kingdom of Swaziland is one of the world's last remaining absolute monarchies located on the south-east side of Africa between Mozambique and South Africa. Known as the Switzerland of Africa, the Kingdom is home to one of the world’s oldest mines, such as the ‘Ngwenya’ mine considered to be 20,000 years old and now the country’s top tourist attractions
The capital cities of Swaziland are; Mbabane which is the Kingdom’s largest city with a population of around 100,000. The capital derives its name from a Chief Mbabane Kunene, who lived in the area when British settlers arrived. The town dates back to 1887.
Lobamba on the other hand, is Swaziland’s traditional, spiritual and legislative capital city. It is home to the Somhlolo National Stadium, Houses of Parliament, National Museum and Archives also the King Sobhuza II Memorial Park. The King Sobhuza II Memorial Park was established as a tribute to King Sobhuza II who led the Swazi nation to independence (from the British) in 1968.
Swaziland’s economy relies largely on the Agricultural sector though fairly diversified with forestry and mining accounting for about 13 percent of GDP, manufacturing and textiles represent 37 percent while services constitute to 50 percent.
The Kingdom has four topographical and climatic areas ranging from 400 to 1800 meters above sea level, each with its own unique characteristics. With the exception of desert and sea, every geographical feature of Africa’s terrain is found within Swaziland: magnificent mountain scenery with rivers, waterfalls and gorges; unique rock formations which are among the world’s most ancient; lush and fertile valleys, plus typical African bush.
From west to east, Swaziland moves from mountainous Highveld, though Middleveld to Lowveld, and then rises again to the Lubombo mountains.
Both the monarchy and the people of Swaziland actively maintain and preserve an outstanding cultural heritage that is probably unmatched anywhere in Africa. The famous ‘Umhlanga’ (Reed Dance) and ‘Incwala’ are traditional ceremonies that involve thousands of Swazis, and attract visitors from all over the world.
