The Kingdom of eSwatini is a small country in Southern Africa and you may have known it as Swaziland. The name was changed to eSwatini in 2018, as part of the celebrations to mark 50 years of independence. eSwatini has been ruled by King Mswati III since 1986 and is the last absolute monarchy in Africa. The population is about 1.1 million and most people live in rural areas, following a more traditional lifestyle than those who live in the urban areas. Mbabane is the administrative capital of eSwatini and is the largest town, followed closely by Manzini which is the commercial, agricultural, and transportation heart of the country and is often referred to as "The Hub."
eSwatini is a developing country which faces great challenges. Many ewaSwati face poverty and secondary level education is not free. Many families therefore face huge difficulties in terms of paying for their children's education. In terms of health, conditions relating to malnutrition, tuberculosis and malaria are common in the population but the biggest challenge remains HIV infection. About a quarter of the population is affected by HIV and this had a significant impact on life expectancy and economic development in the country. As a result of these challenges, it is estimated that 10% of the population are orphans and/or vulnerable children so there are many in need of support.
The emaSwati are very proud of their country, which ranges from mountains to plains, highveld to lush valleys. They value their culture and heritage and welcome visitors to their homeland.