Eswatini

Eswatini, formerly known as Swaziland, is a landlocked country located in Southern Africa, bordered by South Africa to the north, south, and west, and Mozambique to the east. The country is home to a diverse range of landscapes, including the Hhohho Region, Lubombo Region, Manzini Region, and Shiselweni Region. Eswatini is a member of the African Union, Commonwealth of Nations, and the Southern African Development Community. The country has a long history, with evidence of human habitation dating back to the Stone Age, and has been influenced by various cultures, including the Zulu Kingdom and the British Empire.

Geography

Eswatini is located in the Drakensberg Mountains and the Lebombo Mountains, with the Usutu River and the Komati River flowing through the country. The country's terrain is characterized by a mix of grasslands, savannas, and forests, with a range of wildlife including lions, elephants, and giraffes. The Hlane Royal National Park and the Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary are two of the country's most notable national parks, and are home to a range of flora and fauna. Eswatini is also home to the Ngwenya Mine, one of the oldest mines in the world, and the Malolotja Nature Reserve, which is known for its biodiversity.

History

The history of Eswatini dates back to the Iron Age, with the arrival of the Bantu people in the region. The country was later influenced by the Zulu Kingdom, and in the late 19th century, it became a protectorate of the British Empire. Eswatini gained its independence from Britain on September 6, 1968, with Sobhuza II as its first monarch. The country has a long history of monarchy, with the current king being Mswati III, who has been in power since 1986. Eswatini has also been influenced by the Boer Wars, the Anglo-Zulu War, and the South African Border War.

Government

The government of Eswatini is a monarchy, with the king serving as the head of state. The country has a bilateral relationship with Taiwan, and is a member of the United Nations, the African Union, and the Commonwealth of Nations. Eswatini has a parliamentary system, with the House of Assembly and the Senate making up the country's legislature. The country has a long history of traditional leadership, with the Ndlovukati serving as the female counterpart to the king. Eswatini has also been influenced by the Constitution of South Africa, the Treaty of Westphalia, and the Helsinki Accords.

Economy

The economy of Eswatini is primarily based on agriculture, with the country producing a range of crops including sugar cane, tobacco, and cotton. The country is also rich in natural resources, including coal, iron ore, and asbestos. Eswatini has a growing tourism industry, with visitors drawn to the country's national parks and game reserves. The country has a customs union with South Africa and Lesotho, and is a member of the Southern African Customs Union. Eswatini has also been influenced by the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade, the World Trade Organization, and the International Monetary Fund.

Culture

The culture of Eswatini is a mix of African and European influences, with the country having a strong tradition of music and dance. The country is home to a range of festivals, including the Incwala Ceremony and the Reed Dance. Eswatini has a rich tradition of crafts, including woodcarving and basket weaving. The country has a growing film industry, with films such as Yesterday and Fools being produced in the country. Eswatini has also been influenced by the Cannes Film Festival, the Berlin International Film Festival, and the Academy Awards.

Demographics

The population of Eswatini is approximately 1.3 million people, with the majority of the population being of Swazi descent. The country has a diverse range of languages, including Swati, English, and Zulu. Eswatini has a high HIV/AIDS prevalence rate, with the country having one of the highest rates of infection in the world. The country has a range of universities, including the University of Eswatini and the Southern African Nazarene University. Eswatini has also been influenced by the World Health Organization, the United Nations Children's Fund, and the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation. Category:African countries