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According to localcollegeexplorer, Swaziland, a small landlocked country in southern Africa, is bordered by South Africa and Mozambique. It is the second smallest country on the continent, with an area of 17,364 square kilometers. Its population of approximately 1.2 million people is largely rural and agrarian-based. Swaziland was originally inhabited by hunter-gatherers who were later joined by Bantu-speaking peoples migrating from other parts of Africa. The earliest recorded history of Swaziland dates back to the mid-16th century when it was ruled by Ngwane III, a powerful chief who established the monarchy that would eventually become modern day Swaziland. Ngwane III’s descendants would continue to rule the country until 1894 when it was colonized by Britain and incorporated into the Union of South Africa. During this period, Britain introduced new laws and regulations that restricted traditional customs such as polygamy and arranged marriages which had been practiced for centuries in Swaziland. In 1968, Britain granted independence to Swaziland under King Sobhuza II who ruled until 1982 when he died without naming an heir apparent. This led to a period of political unrest which saw several coups d’état as well as a new constitution being adopted in 2006 which established a multi-party system of government with King Mswati III currently serving as head of state since 1986. Since independence, Swaziland has experienced rapid economic growth due largely to its abundant natural resources including diamonds, coal and iron ore which are exported to countries in Europe and North America for use in industries such as manufacturing and construction. In addition to these resources, tourism has also become an important source of revenue for the country due to its numerous attractions such as game reserves, national parks and beautiful scenery that make it popular with visitors from around the world. Despite this economic growth however, poverty levels remain high within many parts of the country due to a lack of access to education and healthcare services among other factors. The government has attempted to address these issues through various initiatives including microfinance programs for small businesses as well as agricultural reform projects aimed at improving rural livelihoods but much work still needs to be done if living standards are going to improve significantly in this small African nation in coming years. In 2010, Swaziland was a small, landlocked country located in southern Africa. It had a population of approximately 1.2 million people and was bordered by Mozambique, South Africa, and Zimbabwe. Despite its small size, Swaziland had a diverse culture with people from all over the world living within its borders. The official language was English but siSwati (a Bantu language) was also spoken. Politically speaking, Swaziland was ruled by an absolute monarch who held all executive power. This monarch was chosen through an ancient system of succession and in 2010 this ruler was King Mswati III who had been in power since 1986. Swaziland’s economy relied heavily on subsistence agriculture as well as exports of sugar and soft drinks which accounted for nearly two-thirds of its GDP in 2010. The country also relied heavily on foreign aid from countries such as the United Kingdom and the United States to help fund development projects such as infrastructure and education initiatives. In terms of culture, Swaziland had many unique traditions such as Incwala which celebrated the national harvest; Umhlanga which celebrated young womanhood; and traditional dance styles like Sibhaca which featured colorful costumes and lively drumming. In addition to this vibrant culture, Swaziland also boasted some beautiful natural landscapes including lush green hillsides filled with exotic wildlife as well as stunning beaches along its Indian Ocean coastline. In short, in 2010 Swaziland was a developing nation with much potential but still facing many challenges both politically and economically.

Swaziland Guide

Swaziland Guide

Swaziland – country information Country name Swaziland Official name Kingdom of Swaziland Capital Mbabane Continent Africa Area 17,364 km2 Population 1,250,000 (2013) Foundation of a state 6/9/1968 The highest mountains Emlembe 1862 m State system a monarchy with a bicameral parliament The biggest cities Manzini 70,000, Mbabane (capital) 60,000, Lobamba (seat of king and parliament) Official language Swazi and English Ethnicity/National Composition Swazi 85%, Zulu 10%, Tsonga 2.5%, Indian 1.5%, other 1% Religious affiliation Protestant 38%, African Christian 29%, Traditional…

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