Eswatinis

Eswatinis are the citizens of Eswatini, a landlocked kingdom in Southern Africa bordered by South Africa and Mozambique. The country, renamed Eswatini in 2018, means “land of the Swazis” in siSwati. The people are predominantly of the Swazi ethnic group; siSwati is the national language, with English widely used in public life. The population is around 1.1 million, with most residents living in rural areas and small towns.

Eswatini is a monarchy. The king is the head of state and plays a central role in government alongside a parliament and cabinet in a system described as a constitutional monarchy with significant traditional authority. The parliament is bicameral, comprising the Senate and House of Assembly, with members elected and appointed.

Culturally, Eswatini has a rich tradition of music, dance, crafts, and ritual. The annual umhlanga (reed dance) and other royal ceremonies are important expressions of national identity. Traditional attire and beadwork are notable aspects of Swazi culture, alongside modern urban culture in Mbabane and Manzini.

The economy is diversified, with agriculture, sugar and other crops, forestry, and manufacturing including textiles, as well as services and tourism. Development challenges include poverty and health issues, including HIV/AIDS, which the country has addressed through public health programs and international aid. Eswatini’s people maintain a strong sense of community and continuity between modern governance and customary structures, shaping national life and identity.