The Untold History of Eswatini: A Kingdom Caught Between Tradition and Modern Global Challenges
Home / Swaziland history
Eswatini, formerly known as Swaziland, is one of the world’s last absolute monarchies, a small nation nestled between South Africa and Mozambique. Its history is a tapestry of resilience, colonial interference, and cultural preservation. For centuries, the Swazi people have maintained their traditions under the rule of the Dlamini dynasty, even as the world around them transformed dramatically.
Long before European colonizers arrived, the Swazi people established a centralized kingdom under King Sobhuza I in the early 19th century. The kingdom’s structure was built on a system of tinkhundla (regional councils) and a deep respect for the monarchy, which was seen as both a political and spiritual authority. The Swazi nation thrived through cattle herding, agriculture, and trade with neighboring groups like the Zulu and the Tsonga.
Like much of Africa, Eswatini was not spared from the brutality of colonialism. In the late 19th century, British and Boer forces vied for control over the region. The discovery of gold and other minerals made the land even more desirable. By 1903, Eswatini became a British protectorate, stripping the monarchy of much of its power while allowing indirect rule.
The British introduced cash crops like cotton and tobacco, disrupting traditional farming practices. Missionaries arrived, bringing Christianity and Western education—some of which eroded indigenous beliefs. Yet, the Swazi monarchy cleverly navigated these changes, ensuring that key cultural practices, like the Umhlanga (Reed Dance) and Incwala (Kingship Ceremony), survived.
Eswatini gained independence in 1968, but unlike many African nations that embraced republicanism, it retained its monarchy. King Sobhuza II, one of the longest-reigning monarchs in history, ruled from 1921 until 1982. He was a master strategist—abolishing the constitution in 1973 to consolidate power, yet also modernizing the economy and infrastructure.
During the Cold War, Eswatini walked a tightrope. While officially non-aligned, it maintained close ties with Western powers, particularly South Africa, despite apartheid. This relationship was controversial, as Eswatini benefited economically while turning a blind eye to the oppression of Black South Africans. Some historians argue that the monarchy’s survival depended on these alliances, even as pro-democracy movements grew internally.
Today, Eswatini faces immense challenges—economic inequality, HIV/AIDS prevalence, and calls for democratic reform. King Mswati III, who ascended the throne in 1986, has been criticized for his lavish lifestyle while many Swazis live in poverty.
Eswatini has one of the highest HIV/AIDS rates in the world, with nearly 27% of adults infected. The epidemic has devastated families and strained the healthcare system. Traditional beliefs sometimes clash with modern medicine, as some still rely on healers (inyangas) rather than antiretroviral treatments. International aid has helped, but corruption and mismanagement have slowed progress.
In recent years, pro-democracy protests have erupted, led mostly by young Swazis frustrated with unemployment and political repression. The monarchy’s response has been heavy-handed, with reports of arrests and internet shutdowns. The global wave of youth-led movements—from #EndSARS in Nigeria to the Arab Spring—has inspired Eswatini’s activists, but the monarchy remains entrenched.
Droughts and erratic weather patterns threaten Eswatini’s agriculture, a lifeline for many rural communities. Deforestation and soil degradation worsen the crisis. The government has launched reforestation projects, but without systemic change, these efforts may fall short.
Eswatini’s future hinges on whether it can reconcile its deep-rooted traditions with the demands of a rapidly changing world. The monarchy’s legitimacy is increasingly questioned, yet many Swazis still revere the king as a cultural symbol.
The world watches as this small kingdom grapples with the same issues plaguing much of Africa—governance, health, and climate resilience. Whether Eswatini evolves into a constitutional monarchy or resists reform will shape its place in the 21st century.
For now, the Umhlanga dancers still gather, the Incwala ceremonies persist, and the mountains of Eswatini stand as silent witnesses to a nation’s struggle for identity in an unforgiving global landscape.