Eswatini
Subregion: Southern Africa
Eswatini, previously Swaziland, is one of two land-locked kingdom countries enclaved within South Africa’s borders. The government is a Unitary absolute monarchy. The Capital City is Mbabane. The official languages of the country are Swazi and English. The predominant religion is Christianity. Universal healthcare is available in Eswatini but due to the poor quality most expats opt for private healthcare. There are many different public and private providers, facilities and hospitals.
Safety:
Crime in Eswatini is low but petty crime, scams and burglaries are commonplace in Mbabane but these can be avoided with precautions. Visitors should take precautions such as avoiding carrying large amounts of cash or valuable items and being aware of their surroundings at all times. Avoid going out alone after dark or walking alone in rural/remote areas. Eswatini has a high prevalence of HIV/AIDS, and visitors should take precautions to protect themselves. Malaria is also a risk in some areas, particularly during the rainy season, and visitors should take appropriate measures such as using mosquito nets and taking prophylaxis medication. Eswatini is a monarchy with limited democratic freedoms, and there have been occasional protests and civil unrest. Visitors should avoid large gatherings or demonstrations and stay informed about the current situation. Eswatini has a variety of wildlife, including elephants, lions, and rhinos. While these animals are typically found in national parks and reserves, visitors should take precautions to avoid encounters with potentially dangerous animals and follow the guidance of park rangers. The quality of roads in Eswatini varies, with some main roads being well-maintained, and others being in poor condition. Visitors should exercise caution when driving on poorly maintained roads, especially during the rainy season when roads can become impassable. Eswatini has a high number of road accidents, with most accidents being caused by reckless driving, speeding, and drunk driving. Visitors should exercise caution when driving and follow all traffic laws. Eswatini has a large population of wildlife, including elephants, which can sometimes wander onto the roads. Visitors should be cautious when driving, especially at night, and should slow down or stop if they encounter wildlife on the road. Visitors should consider hiring a driver. Vehicles drive on the left in Eswatini.
Cultural Customs:
Eswatini is known for its rich cultural heritage and customs, which are deeply rooted in its history and traditions. Eswatini is run by the King (Ngwenyama) along with the Queen Mother or spiritual leader of the country. The Queen Mother (Ndlovukati) is generally the King’s mother. Umhlanga (Reed Dance) is a traditional ceremony that takes place annually in August or September. It is a celebration of the Swazi virginity culture, where young girls dance and present reeds to the Queen Mother as a symbol of their purity. Incwala (First Fruits Ceremony) is another major cultural event that takes place in December or January. It is a celebration of the harvest season and the start of a new year. The King plays a significant role in this ceremony, and it involves various rituals, including the sacrifice of a bull. In Eswatini culture, elders are highly respected and revered. It is customary to greet elders first and show them respect by kneeling or bowing when greeting them. Eswatini has a rich tradition of colorful and unique clothing. Modern clothes are worn however, traditional dress is usually worn to cultural events. Men wear a traditional skirt known as a 'lihiya', and women wear colorful dresses called 'emahiya'. Music and dance are an integral part of Eswatini culture. Traditional songs and dances are performed at various ceremonies and events, with drums being a significant instrument in the music. Eswatini people are known for their hospitality and friendliness towards visitors. It is customary to offer food and drinks to guests as a sign of welcome and respect. Eswatini has a monarchy system of government, and the King is highly respected and revered. It is customary to show respect for the King and the royal family.
Geography & Weather:
The climate in Eswatini depends on the altitude. Highveld, Middleveld and Lowveld are different environmentally as well.
In Mbabane, which is located in the highveld/altitude area in the West, the average temperature ranges from 53 to 68 degrees Fahrenheit. The coldest month is June with a median temperature of 53 degrees F and January being the hottest month with a median temperature of 68 degrees F. The rainy season in this area is October - March. The sun shines all year round. The nighttime temperatures can go below freezing in this area.
In Manzini, which is located in the middleveld/altitude area in the middle of the country, the average temperature ranges from 62 to 76 degrees Fahrenheit. The coldest month is July with a median temperature of 62 degrees F and February is the hottest month with a median temperature of 76 degrees F. The rainy season in this area is October - March but they only get about 36 inches of rain annually.
In Big Bend, which is located in the lowveld/altitude area in the east of the country, the average temperature ranges from 62 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit. The coldest month is June with a median temperature of 62 degrees F and January is the hottest month with a median temperature of 80 degrees F. The rainy season in this area is October - March. The total annual rainfall is about 23 inches.
Economy:
The country has a mixed economy with agriculture, manufacturing, and services as the main economic activities. However, Eswatini's economy is heavily reliant on its neighbors, South Africa and Mozambique, for trade and employment opportunities. In recent years, Eswatini has experienced high levels of unemployment, particularly among young people. According to the World Bank, the unemployment rate in Eswatini was 28.1% in 2020, with youth unemployment (ages 15-24) at 40.3%. The COVID-19 pandemic has worsened the situation, leading to job losses and decreased economic activity. To address the issue of unemployment, the government of Eswatini has implemented several measures, including investing in education and skills training, promoting entrepreneurship, and creating a conducive business environment to attract foreign investment. However, progress has been slow, and more needs to be done to address the root causes of unemployment and create more job opportunities for the people of Eswatini.
Currency/Foreign Exchange Rate:
Swazi Lilangeni (SZL)
SZL 1.00 = USD .062
Country Stats:
Population (2020):
1,160,164
Median Age:
20.7 yrs
Life Expectancy:
61.05 yrs
Visa Requirements:
Needed for Entry for US Citizens? No, if less than 30 day visit
*Additional Information*
Yellow fever vaccination required if you traveled thru: Benin, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cameroon, Central African Republic, Congo, Côte d’lvoire, DRC, Gabon, Guinea-Bissau, Kenya, Liberia, Rwanda, Sierra Leone, Niger, Togo. You must have two blank Visa pages in your passport upon arrival or you risk being denied entry
Citizenship Requirements:
Dual citizenship - Yes, but only for nationals by birth
Naturalization - Egyptian citizenship may be acquired upon fulfillment of the following conditions: Person has resided in Eswatini for at least five consecutive years, is of good morality, no physical or mental disabilities, have no criminal convictions, and is financially stable. The person must also prove competency in English or Swazi and wants to contribute to the development of the nation.
Residency Requirements:
A temporary residency visa is available for people looking to relocate into Eswatini as expats. This permit must be applied for if you plan on being in the country for longer than 60 days. This permit is good for 3 to 24 months. The fees range from $21 - 170 USD. This permit also allows you to work within the country.
Resources:
Eswatini Ministry of Home Affairs
U.S. Embassy Mbabane
Corner of MR103 and Cultural Centre Drive PO Box D202
The Gables H106, Eswatini
Telephone: 268 2417 9000
Emergency after-hours telephone: 268-7602-8414
Fax: 268-2416 3344
Email: ConsularMbabane@state.gov