Eswatini: A Journey through Its Heritage, Economy, and Governance

Background

Eswatini, formerly known as Swaziland, is a small, landlocked country in Southern Africa. Despite its size, the nation boasts of diverse geography and climates. The population is primarily ethnic Swazis, with Swazi as the dominant language. The Swazi kingdom was established in the mid-18th century under the leadership of Ngwane III. It was later named after Mswati II, the 19th-century king who expanded and unified the territory. The current borders were defined in 1881 during the Scramble for Africa.

Following the Second Boer War, Eswatini became a British high commission territory named Swaziland from 1903 until it gained independence on September 6, 1968. In April 2018, the country officially changed its name to the Kingdom of Eswatini, reflecting its Swazi heritage. Traditional culture plays a significant role in Eswatini, with the monarchy at its center. Key cultural events include the Umhlanga (Reed Dance) and Incwala, which emphasize unity and respect for leadership.

While Christianity is the predominant religion, with Roman Catholicism, Methodism, and Zionist congregations widely practiced, many Swazis still adhere to traditional beliefs, such as worshipping ancestral spirits and consulting sangomas (traditional healers). This blend of modern faith and indigenous customs highlights the nation’s cultural balance.

Economy

Eswatini’s economy is characterized by a stark divide between large-scale manufacturing and small-scale subsistence activities, resulting in significant income disparities. The economy is relatively diverse, with agriculture, forestry, and mining contributing around 13% of GDP, while manufacturing (notably textiles and sugar processing) accounts for 37%. The remaining 50% comes from services, led by government services.

The country’s agricultural sector is split between Title Deed lands, which are highly productive and investment-heavy, focusing on sugar, forestry, and citrus, and Swazi Nation Land, where about 75% of the population engages in low-productivity subsistence farming. This dual nature of the economy, with industrialized, high-productivity sectors and underdeveloped subsistence farming, contributes to Eswatini’s low growth, high inequality, and unemployment.

The Bulembu asbestos mine was once a major source of foreign revenue, but its production has declined significantly. Other mineral resources, such as diamonds, iron ore, and gold, remain underdeveloped due to insufficient investment and policy support. The Kingdom of Eswatini is moving toward a more privately driven economy, but without significant reforms, the economic situation remains precarious. The COVID-19 pandemic prompted the government to publish an economic recovery plan to revitalize the local economy.

Political and Democratic Situation

Eswatini is Africa’s last absolute monarchy, with limited political freedom and democratic reforms. The political system is deeply rooted in the monarchy, and progress toward democratization has been slow. King Mswati III, who has ruled since 1986, maintains nearly absolute control over the government, appointing the Prime Minister, cabinet, and a significant portion of the parliament. The monarchy also controls the judiciary and traditional councils, reinforcing its influence over local governance.

The governance system in Eswatini combines modern institutions with traditional Swazi practices. While there are executive, legislative, and judicial branches, there is also a parallel system of traditional authority, where chiefs play crucial roles in rural governance, further consolidating the monarchy’s power. The government heavily regulates political activity, suppressing and harassing opposition parties.

Pro-democracy groups, such as the People’s United Democratic Movement (PUDEMO) and the Swaziland Youth Congress (SWAYOCO), have been advocating for multi-party democracy. However, they face challenges, including repression, arrests, and strict monitoring. Parliamentary elections are held, but political parties are not allowed to participate; candidates run as independents with limited legislative power. Recent years have seen a rise in pro-democracy protests, driven by calls for reform, economic inequality, and political corruption. The monarchy has resisted significant changes despite international pressure and domestic unrest, leading to ongoing challenges to the political status quo.

Conclusion

Eswatini is a country where rich cultural heritage, economic contrasts, and complex governance structures intersect. While the nation takes pride in its deep-rooted traditions and vibrant cultural events, it faces significant economic challenges, including stark inequalities and an urgent need for reform to attract investment and promote sustainable growth. Politically, Eswatini remains Africa’s last absolute monarchy, with ongoing internal pressures and calls for democratization.

The path forward for Eswatini will depend on its ability to balance respect for its traditional values with the need for political and economic reforms to address the demands of its people and the evolving global landscape. As the country navigates these challenges, the hope for a more inclusive and prosperous future remains central to its narrative.