Powerful state of Swaziland. Full description of Swaziland

Official name- The Kingdom of Swaziland.

Located in southern Africa. Area 17,363 km2, number per 1.1 million people. (2002, estimate). State Siswati and English. The capital is the city of Mbabane (38.6 thousand people, 2002). Public Holiday- Independence Day September 6 (since 1968). The monetary unit is langeni.

Member ok. 40 international organizations, incl. UN (since 1968), AU (since 2000), SADC (since 1992).

Landmarks of Swaziland

Geography of Swaziland

It is located between 30°48' and 32° east longitude, 25°24' and 27°24' south latitude; has no access to the sea, is surrounded on three sides by the territory of South Africa, in the east it borders on Mozambique.
The landscape is a plateau that descends in three steps to the coastal plain of Mozambique: the High Veld in the west (altitude 1050-1850 m), the Middle Veld (450-600 m) and the Low Veld (150-300 m). The low veld is bordered in the east by the Lebombo mountains, 450-825 m high, with Emlembe peak (1862 m). A dense river network forms basins of four full-flowing rivers flowing into Indian Ocean: Komachi, Umbeluzi, Usutu and Ngwavuma.

The soils are alluvial, red-brown, waterlogged and leached. The vegetation is diverse, although it has suffered from human activities. The meadows of the High Veld gradually turn into a forested savannah in the east of the country with typically tropical trees. Animal world has thinned considerably, there are hippos, crocodiles, antelopes, zebras and even a rare blue buffalo.

In the depths of Swaziland, coal deposits (reserves of 1 billion tons), small deposits of iron ore, tin, kaolin, talc, asbestos, gold, and diamonds have been discovered.

The climate is humid, subtropical in the west and tropical in the east. The amount of precipitation is from 500 to 1400 mm per year. Average temperatures: +12-15°C in July, +20-24°C in February.

Population of Swaziland

The population has doubled in 22 years. The population growth rate decreased from 2.5% (1980) to 1.6% (2002) due to the AIDS pandemic. Birth rate 39.59%, mortality 23.26%, infant mortality 109.43 people. per 1000 newborns (2002). Average duration life 37 years (37.66 for women, 36.35 for men). Gender and age structure (2002): 0-14 years old - 45.5% (254,573 men and 256,677 women), 15-64 years old - 51.9% (respectively 281,645 and 301,071), 65 years and older - 2, 6% (12,027 and 17,612). The number of HIV-infected people is 212 thousand, i.e. 35.6% of the adult population (2002). In 2000, approx. 50% of the population. Among adults, 80% are literate.

97% of the population are Swazi, approx. 3% are white. Languages: Siswati, English, Zulu.

70% - Christians, 10% - Muslims, the rest adhere to local beliefs.

History of Swaziland

The ancestors of the current Swazi moved to the beginning. 15th c. from the territory of present-day Mozambique to the northeast of Natal, and from there in the 18th century. were forced to leave under the onslaught of other tribes to the land where they live now. Already in the 18th century. leader Ngwane III created a strong state, which in the 19th century. twice the size of today's state. In the 1820-30s. Swazi defended their independence in wars with the Zulu, and from the beginning of the 1840s. the country became the object of the aggressive aspirations of the European colonialists - the British, the Portuguese, the Boers. The Boers were especially active, buying up huge land areas from the leaders for next to nothing. In 1894, Swaziland was annexed by the Boer Republic of the Transvaal, and after the Boer War became a British protectorate. King Sobhuza II, who ascended the throne in 1921, directed his efforts to redeem land from foreigners and, by the end of his long reign(1983) Swazis owned half of all land.

In the beginning. 1960s the first political parties arose that put forward a demand for the independence of the protectorate, which was granted in 1968. Swaziland became a constitutional monarchy, power was limited by parliament. In the general election, all the seats in parliament went to supporters of the king, although the opposition received 20% of the vote. Nevertheless, in 1973 Sobhuza II repealed the Constitution, dissolved the parliament and banned political parties. In 1978, a new Constitution was introduced, which consolidated the absolute power of the king and made parliament an advisory body.

In 1982, after the death of Sobhuza II, a sharp struggle for power broke out between court factions, and the new king Mswati III was able to ascend the throne only in 1986. Mswati III was faced with the activation of banned political parties that operated through trade union and student organizations and demanded the democratization of society. The most active party was the People's United Democratic Movement (PUDEMO). Demonstrations and strikes became a form of protest. In 1991, the king was forced to create a commission to review the Constitution, the work of which dragged on for a decade. In 1994, trade unions put forward 27 demands to the government, among which were political ones, in particular the creation of a multi-party system. The king rejected these demands. In 1995, the houses of government officials were set on fire, and the buildings of parliament and the Supreme Court were attacked. In January 1996, PUDEMO launched a campaign of protest and defiance. In July, the heads of neighboring states met with the king, convincing him of the need for reforms. In January 1997, the unions and PU-DEMO held a general strike that paralyzed the country's economy for several days. Mswati III released the arrested strike leaders and requested mediation from the South African government. With the help of South Africa, the conflict was settled, the king promised to speed up the work of the constitutional commission, but instead stepped up repressions against dissidents. In August 1998, the king dissolved parliament and called new elections. The opposition boycotted them. On the eve of the elections, there was an explosion near the bridge, through which the king had just passed, and on the day of the oath of the Cabinet of Ministers, a bomb exploded in the office of the Deputy Prime Minister. In 1999, opposition parties and trade unions created the Swaziland Democratic Alliance, which held demonstrations in support of 27 union demands. In 2001, the constitutional commission finally submitted to the king a draft constitution, which did not limit the absolute power of the monarch and did not remove the ban on the activities of political parties. Mswati sent the draft for revision. In 2001-02, a number of laws were passed that limited civil rights. The political situation in the country remains very tense.

State structure and political system of Swaziland

Swaziland is a monarchy, all legislative and executive power belongs to the king. The Constitution of 1978 is in force. Administratively it is divided into 4 districts (Khoho, Lubombo, Manzini, Shiselweni). Major cities: Mbabane, Manzini.

The head of state, legislative and executive power is the king. Parliament is an advisory body; it does not accept, but only discusses bills submitted by the government; consists of the House of Assembly and the Senate. The House of Assembly consists of 65 deputies, 55 of them are elected by the population in a complex two-stage system that ensures that only the leaders or their representatives are nominated as candidates, and 10 are appointed by the king. The Senate consists of 30 members, 10 of whom are elected by the House of Assembly and 20 are appointed by the King. The term of office of Parliament is 5 years. The chief executive is the king, who appoints the government headed by the prime minister. In fact, state decisions are made by the king after discussion in two traditional Swazi institutions - Libandle (National Council), consisting of court nobility, and Likoko (a narrow circle of members of the royal family). The head of state is King Mswati III. Speaker of the House of Assembly - S. Matsebula. The Prime Minister is S. B. Dlamini.

Outstanding statesman- King Sobhuza II (1899-1982). In the early years of his reign, he supported anti-colonial organizations in his country and South Africa. His merit was the resistance to the attempts of the authorities of the Union of South Africa (now South Africa) to annex Swaziland, as well as the creation of a fund to buy Swazi lands from white settlers. Last years pursued a policy aimed at preserving the traditional social structure.

Political parties operate illegally. The most active of them are: People's United Democratic Movement (PUDEMO), Ngwane National Liberation Congress, Progressive Party of Swaziland.

Leading business organizations: Swaziland Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Stock Exchange, Swaziland Central Cooperative Union.

Public organizations: two trade union associations - the Federation of Labor of Swaziland and the Federation of Trade Unions of Swaziland, the Association of Human Rights of Swaziland, the Youth Congress of Swaziland.

Domestic policy with con. 1999 is characterized by tougher legislation and repression against the opposition. Laws have been passed to restrict the right to strike, done away with the independence of judges, press censorship has been effectively introduced, journalists have been arrested and newspapers have been shut down.

Foreign policy is aimed primarily at maintaining good relations with South Africa and Mozambique, but there are frictions with these states due to respect for human rights and because of Mozambican refugees.

Armed forces. Army strength approx. 3 thousand, spending on the army (2002) 20 million US dollars.

Swaziland has diplomatic relations with the Russian Federation, established in 1999.

Economy of Swaziland

The economy is characterized by stable development. GDP $4.6 billion, 5% growth (2001). GDP per capita is one of the highest in Africa at $4,200. The formal sector of the economy employs 340 thousand people. (2001, estimate). Unemployment is 34% (2001), it is weakened by otkhodnichestvo in South Africa. Inflation 7.5% (2001).

Sectoral structure by contribution to GDP (1999,%): agriculture - 10, industry - 43, services - 47.

The most important sector of the economy has become the manufacturing industry (35% of GDP), which is based on the agricultural and forest resources of Swaziland. The main enterprises are sugar production (about 500 thousand tons), wood processing (220 thousand tons of pulp), fruit and cotton processing plants. However, since the 1980s new industries appeared - the production of cotton and synthetic fibers, textiles, shoes, leather goods, glass, building materials, cardboard, electrical equipment, electronics, refrigerators, assembly of buses, computers.

The mining industry is in decline. The deposits of iron ore were depleted, the miners stopped mining diamonds, unable to penetrate deep into the deposit, the demand for asbestos fell. In 2000, 380 thousand tons of coal and 12.7 thousand tons of asbestos were mined.

The potential for hydropower development is significant due to the presence of mountain rivers, but so far hydroelectric power plants generate 44% of the electricity in the country. Most of the energy comes from South Africa. In 2000, its consumption amounted to 900.7 million kWh, and 362 million kWh were produced in the country.

44% of all land is owned by white farmers and foreign companies. The rest is considered the property of all Swazis, but only half of the Swazi lands are allocated for peasant plots. This is the subsistence sector, producing only 1% of GDP. The other half of the Swazi land is dedicated to the cultivation of marketable products by state-owned companies. Most of the corn and cotton in the country are grown in these areas.

The main commercial crops (thousand tons, 2000): sugar cane - 3885, corn - 85, citrus fruits - 73, pineapples - 20, cotton - 7. Sugar cane provided up to 13% of foreign exchange earnings, but now its exports have fallen due to the construction sugar factories in Swaziland itself. The corn harvest does not cover the country's needs of 140 thousand tons, and grain has to be imported from South Africa. Cattle breeding has no commercial value. The number of cattle in 2000 - 608 thousand.

Railways crossing the country link Swaziland with South Africa and Mozambique. The length of railways is 297 km (2001). The annual traffic volume is 1250-1300 million passenger-km and 4.3-4.5 million tons of cargo. The length of roads is 3800 km, of which 1064 km are paved (2002).

The country has 2 airports and 16 airstrips. Mbabane and Manzini are connected by air with the cities of South Africa and Mozambique. Transportation is carried out by Airlink (South Africa).

Telephone communication is carried out at the modern level through digital telephone channels, communication satellites and systems mobile phones. The number of fixed telephones is 38.5 thousand, mobile - 45 thousand (2001). There are 8 radio stations and 5 television stations. The number of Internet users is 14 thousand (2002).

All wholesale and retail trade is in private hands. Cooperation has been developed (123 trade and marketing cooperatives).

Tourism began to develop rapidly after 1994. In 2000, 353 thousand tourists visited the country, mainly from South Africa, and tourism revenues amounted to 47 million US dollars.

The economic policy of the government in agriculture is aimed at increasing production through irrigation, and in industry - at the diversification of manufacturing industries in order to reduce the dependence of the economy on the export of raw materials. It intends to achieve this through external investment, but in 2000 difficulties arose in relations with the IMF, which, along with the usual recommendations - speed up privatization, increase budget revenues - noted the need to control government spending, which is difficult to implement without democratic reforms and the creation of legal opposition . Politics in social sphere is of a dual nature. The government regularly indexes the salaries of civil servants and encourages the private sector to do the same. As a result, there were no major strikes in 2001-02. At the same time, there is an attack on trade union rights.

The financial system is closely tied to the financial structure of South Africa. Swaziland is part of the rand currency zone, the South African rand is in circulation in the country on a par with langeni. The Central Bank of Swaziland is forced to adjust the langeni exchange rate, its emission, anti-inflationary measures, etc. in accordance with the policy of the Reserve Bank of South Africa. There are 2 commercial and 3 investment banks.

Since 1999 the budget has been constantly in deficit. Revenues $448 million, expenses $506.9 million including capital budget ($147 million, 2001/02). In the 2002/03 budget, taxes on goods, services and foreign trade account for 67% of budget revenues. External debt 336 million US dollars (2001).

The standard of living of the majority rural population is very low, since land plots of less than 2 hectares allocated by the leaders make it difficult to feed a family even in good years. The standard of living in cities is much higher. Although the cost of living index in 1998-2001 increased by 6-7% per year, the growth of real wages was approximately the same. Bank deposits increased (619 million langeni in 2001).

Foreign trade (million dollars, 2001): export - 702, import - 850. Main export items: sugar cane, pulp, sugar, soft drink concentrates, fruits. Main import items: vehicles, equipment, food, oil products. 90% of imports and 66% of exports come from South Africa.

Science and culture of Swaziland

primary schools attended by 98% of children. Scientific research conducted at the University of Swaziland, at three experimental stations (crop production, animal husbandry, forestry), in the Department of Geology. Manzini has a National Library and Lobamba has a National Museum.

On the world map Map

September 810, 2006

A wonderful kingdom. A reed festival is held here every year, during which 15,000 virgins gather reeds for a week to bring them to the Queen Mother in the last two days. At this time, the king chooses his next wife from all this crowd. This year, the tenth, or something (the king is still young).

I went to South Africa for this holiday. Nobody knows so much about Swaziland that even the tour operator from South Africa did not know that the hotel where I was supposed to stay had changed its name.

The taxi driver happily said that I missed the most interesting:

Why did you arrive so unsuccessfully, the other day we ended the reed holiday!

Sic transit gloria turagenti.

Swaziland turned out to be an infinitely cute kingdom with mountains, helpful people and almost the highest number of registered HIV-infected people in the world (in proportion to the population).

It even seemed to me that the whole reed festival was not an ancient custom that has survived to this day, but state propaganda against premarital sex. Although it is not clear what the ancient custom is Swaziland is 150 years old.

Local residents build different houses for all family members. In one husband. In the other, a wife. In the third, the second wife. Old people should be respected and settled separately. And definitely in a round house.

Here the old people have not yet been brought:

Swaziland seemed to me five times more beautiful than South Africa. Here the meaning of the adjective "picturesque" was revealed to me.

Picturesque bumps.

Picturesque insulators not touched by a single wire.

A picturesque restaurant with a typo.

Scenic traffic light.

Shadows, shadows. I felt like Gagarin on Leninsky Prospekt.

Bus stops.

In the city center there is a sign “Driver! Slow down, Parliament is in session." Someone didn't slow down.

Newspaper editorials at every crossroads in the city.

Newly built hydroelectric dam.

Among the 200 stalls at the local folk art market, I even found one unique one. 199 sell templates, one sells real.

This kitty turned out to be too big to carry with me, I bought her little sister (with the same excellent smile):

At the other end of the kingdom, glass blowers produce glass containers.

But they know their own price: “there is no discount, it doesn’t work here anymore.”

It is hard for a person from the north to imagine the omnipresence of the African fauna. If you meet a squirrel in the Moscow region, for a week of impressions. And here the monkeys calmly jump like stray dogs. During breakfast, while I was going for a glass of milk, some exotic bird pooped on my plate with an omelette that was still untouched.

There is a "cultural village" a special staff of "natives" entertains tourists with songs and dances ten times a day. It's terrible, like all performances for tourists, like women in kokoshniks, leading a round dance in front of a delegation of Bavarian power engineers in the banquet hall of some Suzdal boarding house.

I went to see a real village. It turned out to be an orphanage. The head of the orphanage led a lesson for the children, the head teacher and the teacher were preparing lunch.

I was very lucky to have a taxi driver that I chartered for the day. He even took his son with him to show his kingdom. In the village, the taxi driver approached the head of the shelter, took a chair and explained the situation for 15 minutes.

The boss was imbued with the scale of the lost impressions and decided to compensate for everything. For me they sang, danced and demonstrated everything from a mortar to a jug. The boss turned out to be an absolutely amazing woman, with unimaginable blue eyes and an incredible voice.

SWAZILAND

(Kingdom of Swaziland)

General information

Geographical position. Swaziland is a state in southeast Africa. In the east it borders with Mozambique, in the southeast, south, west and north with South Africa.

Square. The territory of Swaziland occupies 17,363 sq. km.

gchavnye cities, Administrative division. The capital of Swaziland is Mbabane (administrative), Lobamba (royal residence). The largest cities: Man-zini (53 thousand people), Mbabane (47 thousand people).

Political system

Swaziland is a constitutional monarchy. The head of state is the king. The head of government is the prime minister. The legislature is a bicameral parliament (the Senate and the House of Assembly).

Nature

Relief. In the west of the country there is a mountain range rising up to 1,220 m, in the center - a plateau, the average height of which is about 610 m, the east of the country is occupied by a low-lying veld.

Geological structure and minerals. The bowels of the country contain reserves of asbestos, gold, diamonds.

Climate. The country's climate is transitional from subtropical to tropical, humid in summer. Average monthly temperatures are from +12°С to +20°С. Precipitation falls from 500-700 mm in the east of the country to 1200-1400 mm or more in the west.

Inland waters. The main rivers of the country are the Komati, the Great Usutu and the Umbeluzi.

Soils and vegetation. Vegetation in the west is a typical savanna with acacia and baobab, in the east thickets of xerophytic shrubs predominate.

Animal world. Fauna - typical of the African savannas: blue buffaloes, markhorned antelopes, zebras, hippos, crocodiles in the rivers.

Population and language

The population of Swaziland is about 966 thousand people, the average population density is about 56 people per 1 sq. km. km. Ethnic groups: Swazi - 90%, Zulus - 2.3%), Europeans - 2.1%. Languages: Swazi, English (both official).

Religion

Believers are mostly Christians, a third of the population adhere to local traditional beliefs.

Brief historical outline

The Royal House of Swaziland has been known for over 400 years and is one of the oldest in Africa. IN late XIX V. After the Boer War, Swaziland came under the control of the Union of South Africa. In 1907, Swaziland was placed under the jurisdiction of the British High Commissioner for South Africa. In 1967, the country received the right to self-government, and on September 6, 1968, full independence. In 1973, the constitution was repealed and banned political activity. For four years after the death of King Sobuz II, there was no ruler in the country - it was decided which of the 67 sons of the monarch should take the throne. This problem was solved in 1986.

Brief economic essay

Economically underdeveloped agricultural country. Main agricultural crops: corn, sugarcane, citrus fruits, pineapples, cotton. Transhumance-pasture animal husbandry. Mining of asbestos, coal, iron ore. Artificial afforestations have been created on the site of the reduced primary forests. Logging. Sugar, woodworking, canning factories. Exports: sugar, canned fruits, meat, timber, asbestos.

The monetary unit is the lilangeni, and the South African rand is also in free circulation.

A Brief Outline of Culture

Art and architecture. Lobamba. National Museum of Swaziland; Houses of Parliament; Queen Mother's Village.

Geographical names of the world: Toponymic dictionary. - M: AST. Pospelov E.M. 2001 .

Swaziland

(Swaziland), Kingdom of Swaziland , state-in on SE. Africa. Pl. 17.4 thousand km², capital - Mbabane; the seat of the king and parliament - Lobamba. Since the beginning of the 1840s, it has been the object of claims by the British, Boers and Portuguese. Since 1894 - as part of the Boer Republic of Transvaal; since 1903 - a protectorate of Great Britain called Swaziland, in 1967 received ext. self management. Since September 6 (national holiday) 1968 - an independent state. A constitutional monarchy; The bicameral parliament consists of the Senate and the House of Assembly. Part of the British Commonwealth. B. h. territory - plateau Weld , descending to the coastal plain of Mozambique in three steps from 20 to 80 km wide: High Veld (hilly), Medium. Weld (flattened) and Low Weld (flat plain). Along the east the borders are the mountains of Lebombo. The climate is transitional from subtropical to tropical. Wed-mon. temperatures 12–15 °С in winter, 20–24 °С in summer. Precipitation varies from 500–700 mm per year in the east to 1200–1400 mm or more in the west. Main river- Usutu. A typical savannah with acacia, baobab, thickets of drought-resistant shrubs in the west, turning into mountain meadows and forests of acacias (mostly cut and scorched) in the east. On the slopes of the High Weld - forest plantations (California pine, eucalyptus).
Population 1.1 million people (2001); ch. arr. Swazi people. Official languages ​​are English and Swazi. 60% of believers are Christians (Catholics), the rest adhere to local traditional beliefs. Economically backward agricultural country. Sugar is grown. cane, corn, tobacco, citrus fruits, pineapples, cotton, potatoes, peanuts, millet. Meat livestock (main arr. on the farms of Europeans). Logging. Asbestos mining (4th place in the world); processing of agricultural products, woodworking, production of yarn, fertilizers; assembly of televisions and electrical appliances. The railroad connects S. with the ports of South Africa and Mozambique (Maputo). Intern. airport. Sugar, asbestos, livestock products (meat, butter, bone meal), fruits are exported. Economically dependent on South Africa (70% foreign trade; over 75% of foreign currency is kept in the Reserve Bank of South Africa). National university in Kvaluseni; nat. the library in Manzini; nat. museum in Lobamba. Cash unit - lilangeni and rand.

Dictionary of modern geographical names. - Yekaterinburg: U-Factoria. Under the general editorship of Acad. V. M. Kotlyakova. 2006 .

Kingdom of Swaziland. State in southern Africa. The capital is the city of Mbabane (80 thousand people - 2003). Territory - 17.4 thousand square meters. km. Administrative-territorial division - 4 districts. Population - 1.17 million people. (2004). Official language– Siswati and English. Religion - Christianity, traditional African beliefs and Islam. The monetary unit is the langeni. National holiday - Independence Day (1968), September 6.
Swaziland is a member of ca. 40 international organizations, including the UN since 1968, the Organization of African Unity (OAU) since 1968, and since 2002 its successor - the African Union (AU), the Non-Aligned Movement, the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA) since 1994, the Community development of Southern Africa (SADC) since 1992, the South African Customs Union (SACU) since 1969 and the Commonwealth (an association of countries that were part of the British Empire).
Nature. The surface of Swaziland is a highland that drops eastward to the coastal plain of Mozambique in three stages: the High Weld (1000–1500 m above sea level), the Middle Weld (400–800 m) and the Low Weld (150–300 m). Located in the west, the High Veld is characterized by a dissected relief, some peaks exceed 1800 m, the highest point is Mount Emlembe (1862 m). The middle Weld is characterized by a leveled surface and is favorable for dribbling. Agriculture. The Low Weld is famous for its rich pastures and forests, bounded to the east by the Lebombo Mountains.
Minerals. Swaziland has significant mineral resources - diamonds, asbestos, gold, iron, coal, kaolin, tin, pyrophyllite, semi-precious stones (beryl, quartz, etc.) and talc.
Dense river network, the largest rivers are Komati, Ngvavuma, Umbeluzi, Usutu. The main rivers of Swaziland cut through these mountains and flow into the Indian Ocean.
Climate. The High Weld region is characterized by a subtropical climate with average temperatures ranging from 16° to 22° C and an average annual rainfall of 1200–1400 mm or more. The Middle Weld and the Lebombo Mountains are in the transition zone, while the Low Weld is in the tropical climate belt with average temperatures of 20–24°C and an average annual rainfall of 500–700 mm.
Flora- meadow in the High Veld region and forest savannah in the eastern part of the country (various acacias, including Australian, American pines, baobabs, gum tree, xerophytic shrubs, eucalyptus, etc.)
Fauna– meet different types antelopes (including markhorns), hippos, white rhinos, zebras, crocodiles. The tsetse fly is spread throughout the area.
Population. The population density is approx. 50 people per 1 sq. km (2002). The average annual population growth is 0.25% (the population growth rate has declined sharply due to AIDS, in 2002 it was 1.6%). Birth rate - 27.72 per 1000 people, mortality - 25.26 per 1000 people. Child mortality - 69.27 per 1000 newborns. 40.6% of the population are children under 14 years of age. Residents who have reached the age of 65 - 3.8%. Life expectancy - 35.65 years (men - 37.18, women - 34.07). (All figures are in estimates for 2005).
97% of the population of Swaziland are Swazi (Bantu-speaking people). OK. 3% of the inhabitants are Europeans, mostly British. Siswati, the language of the Swazi people, is official language on par with English.
The urban population is approx. 50% (2002). After the capital Big City- Manzini. The traditional labor migration from Swaziland to the mines and farms of the Republic of South Africa continues.
Religions. OK. 60% of the population are Christians (mostly Protestants), approx. 40% adhere to traditional African beliefs (animalism, fetishism, the cult of ancestors, forces of nature, etc.), there is a small Muslim community (2004). There are also a small number of Baha'i followers. The spread of Christianity began in the beginning. 19th century
GOVERNMENT AND POLITICS
State device. A constitutional monarchy. The constitution adopted in 1978 as amended in 1992 is in force. The head of state is the king, who has supreme legislative and executive power. The heir to the throne in Swaziland is a prince chosen by members of the royal family. In the event of the death of the king or the minority of the heir to the throne, the queen mother governs the country.
Legislative power is partially exercised by a bicameral parliament, which consists of the House of Assembly (65 deputies) and the Senate (30 deputies). Parliament performs the functions of an advisory body under the king, since it does not accept, but only discusses bills submitted by the government. In addition, the king has the right to veto the decisions of Parliament. The 10 members of the House of Assembly are appointed by the king, while 55 are elected by the people through a complex two-stage scheme. Candidates for voting are put forward by traditional local councils, which consist of chiefs. The 20 members of the Senate are appointed by the King and 10 are elected by the House of Assembly. The term of office of both houses of parliament is 5 years.
In practice, state decisions are made by the king after their discussion in Libandl (National Council, whose members are representatives of the court nobility, the king and the queen mother) and Likoko (a narrow circle of the most trusted members of the royal family).
Executive power is exercised by the government and the prime minister, who is appointed by the king from among the deputies of the House of Assembly.
King of Swaziland - Mswati III (Mswati III). He ascended the throne on April 25, 1986.
The national flag is a rectangular panel consisting of three horizontal stripes: two blue (top and bottom) and one red between them. The red stripe is bordered on both sides by narrow stripes of yellow. In the center of the red stripe there is an image of a large black-and-white shield, which covers two parallel spears and a rod decorated with tassels.
administrative device. The country is divided into 4 regions.
Judicial system. There is a dual legal system - traditional and constitutional courts. The highest court is the Supreme Court. Decisions made in the traditional courts can be appealed to the constitutional courts.
Armed Forces and Defense. The armed forces of Swaziland were created in 1973. Mandatory military service(2 years) introduced since 1983. In 2002, the armed forces numbered approx. 3 thousand people The protection of public order is provided by paramilitary police forces. Defense spending in 2004 was $40.5. USA. (1.4% of GDP).
Foreign policy. It is based on the policy of non-alignment. The main foreign policy partners are the Republic of South Africa and Mozambique. Relations with Mozambique are complicated by the influx of Mozambican refugees.
The question of establishing bilateral diplomatic relations between the USSR and Swaziland was first discussed in con. 1970s during an unofficial visit to the country by an embassy employee Soviet Union in Mozambique. King Sobhuza II, under pressure from the then government of South Africa, refused the proposed contacts. diplomatic relations between Russian Federation and the Kingdom of Swaziland established on November 19, 1999.
political organizations. A multi-party system has developed in the country, but political parties operate on an illegal basis. The most influential of them:
– « Progressive Party of Swaziland"(Swaziland Progressive Party, SPP), chairman. - Nkuku John (John Nquku). Created in 1960 on the basis of the Progressive Association of Swaziland, founded in 1929;
– « Ngwane National Liberation Congress», KNON(Ngwane National Liberatory Congress, NNLC), chairman. - Dlamini Obed (Obed Dlamini), gene. sec. - Dlamini Dumis (Dumisa Dlamini). Party, main. in 1962 as a result of a split in the Swaziland Progressive Party;
– « national movement Imbocodetwo», OSI(Imbokodvo National Movement, INM), leader position is vacant. Creation Party. in 1964;
– « United Front of Swaziland”, (Swaziland United Front, SUF), leader - Matsapa Shongwe. Base Party. in 1962.
Trade union associations"Swaziland Federation of Trade Unions" (Swaziland Federation of Trade Unions, SFTU). The association was founded in 1980 and has 83,000 members. Chairman - Richard Nxumalo, Gen. sec. - Jan Sithole.
ECONOMY
The Kingdom of Swaziland is one of the most dynamically developing states of the African continent. One of the highest GDP per capita is noted, the purchasing power of the population in 2004 amounted to 5.1 thousand US dollars.
Labor resources. The economically active population is 383.2 thousand people. (2000).
Agriculture. The share of the agricultural sector in GDP is 16.1% (2004). 10.35% of the land is cultivated (2001). 44% of the land is owned by foreign companies and white farmers. The remaining 56% is the property of the entire Swazi people, however, only half of them are allocated for peasant plots. The other half is owned by state-owned companies that produce marketable products. The main cash crops are sugarcane, corn, citrus fruits, pineapples and cotton. Beans, grapefruits, potatoes, rice and sweet potatoes are also grown. Animal husbandry (breeding of cattle, horses, donkeys, pigs, goats and sheep) has no commercial value. The country has the most extensive artificial forest plantations in Africa (120 thousand hectares). The annual catch of freshwater fish (carp, tilapia, etc.) is 70 tons (2000).
Industry. Share in GDP - 43.4% (2004). The basis of industry is the manufacturing industry, which gives approx. 35% of GDP (2002). There are enterprises for processing agricultural products - sugar and cotton ginning plants, woodworking plants, canning factories for processing fruits and vegetables. New manufacturing industries have been created - footwear, textiles, clothing and electronics (computer assembly), the production of cotton yarn and synthetic fibers, as well as the assembly of buses and refrigerators. There are enterprises for the production of cardboard, leather haberdashery, glass, building materials and electrical equipment.
The mining industry is falling into decline due to a drop in demand for asbestos, as well as a lack of modern equipment. Coal mining in 2004 amounted to approx. 600 thousand tons
International trade. The volume of imports exceeds the volume of exports: in 2004, imports (in US dollars) amounted to 1.14 billion US dollars, exports - 900.1 million US dollars. The main imports are machinery, oil products, equipment, foodstuffs, industrial consumer goods, vehicles and chemical products. The main import partners are South Africa (95.6%), EU countries (0.9%), Japan (0.9%) and England (0.3%) - 2004. The main export commodities are soft drink concentrates, pulp ( wood pulp), sugar, cotton yarn, refrigerators and citrus fruits. The main export partners are South Africa (59.7%), EU countries (8.8%), USA (8.8%) and Mozambique (6.2%) - 2004.
Swaziland is a member of the South African Customs Union (SACU), established in 1969 (in addition to it, it also includes Botswana, Lesotho, Namibia and South Africa). The percentage received from general customs duties under this sub-regional organization represents about half of Swaziland's budget revenues.
Energy. The country has significant potential mountain rivers. Electricity production in 2002 amounted to 402 million kilowatt-hours. The most powerful HPP in the country is Luphohlo-Ezulvini, there are also Maguga HPPs on the Komati River and a hydroelectric plant built near the city of Mbabane. 80% of electricity consumed is imported from South Africa, a small part of electricity is imported from Mozambique. Electricity import in 2002 amounted to 799 million kilowatt-hours.
Transport. The total length of railways is 301 km (2004). Swaziland's railways are linked to the South African and Mozambican railway network. Length highways- 3.8 thousand km (with hard surface - 1064 km of roads) - 2002. There are 18 airports and runways (2 of them have hard surface) - 2004. International airports are located 40 km from the city of Mbabane and in Matsapha (near the city of Manzini).
Finance and credit. The financial system of Swaziland is closely tied to financial system SOUTH AFRICA. The monetary unit is the langeni (SZL), consisting of 100 cents, 1 langeni is equal to 1 South African rand. In accordance with the agreement on a common currency area, the South African rand in Swaziland is legal tender on a par with langeni. In 2004, the national currency rate was: 1 USD = 6,459 SZL.
Tourism. It is a fast-growing sector of the economy, has been developing dynamically since 1994. Foreign tourists are attracted by picturesque mountain landscapes, a variety of wildlife, the possibility of safaris, as well as the original culture of the local population. In 2001, 283.12 foreign tourists visited the country, mostly from South Africa. Tourism revenue in 2000 was $47 million.
Attractions: mountain peaks of the High Veld, the National Museum of Swaziland (Lobamba).
SOCIETY AND CULTURE
Education. The first schools were opened during Christian missions in the beginning. 19th century
The education system is underdeveloped, education is not compulsory. Primary schools (the term of study is 7 years) are attended by children from the age of 6. Secondary education (5 years) begins at the age of 13 and takes place in two stages - three and two years. primary education covered 98% of children of the corresponding age (2002). into the system higher education includes the University of Swaziland (located in the suburbs of Manzini Kvaluseni, opened in 1964 as component University of Botswana, Lesotho and Swaziland, received the status of an independent university in 1976), agricultural and pedagogical institutes. In 2002, 18.4% of state funds were allocated from the budget for the needs of the education system. In 2003, 81.6% of the population were literate (82.6% of men and 80.8% of women).
Healthcare. Swaziland is one of the African countries with the most high level AIDS incidence - 38.8% (2003). In 2003, there were 220 thousand AIDS patients and HIV-infected people, 17 thousand people died. AIDS is officially declared a national disaster. In order to limit the spread of the disease, in 2001 King Mswati III issued a decree prohibiting underage girls from having sex.
Lack of clean drinking water(about 40% of the population have constant access to it) leads to outbreaks of intestinal infections. In 2000, health spending was 4.2% of GDP.
In the UN report on the human development of the planet in 2001, Swaziland stood at 133rd place.
Fine Arts and Crafts. The origin of the fine arts in Swaziland began long before our era. e. In the caves and grottoes of the Dragon Mountains, rock paintings of the Bushmen have been preserved - images of people, animals or fantastic creatures, made with mineral and earthen paints, as well as lime and soot, diluted in water and animal fat.
Of the crafts and arts and crafts, pottery, blacksmithing, metalworking (bronze and copper), weaving of grass and straw baskets and mats, the production of leather goods, as well as wood and horn carving are common. Products of folk craftsmen are presented in the exposition of the National Museum of Swaziland in Lobamba (founded in 1972).
Music. Playing musical instruments, songs and dances are closely related to everyday life Swazi people. Traditional rituals are accompanied by singing and dancing (female dance with knives, « reeds"- dance of girls during the initiation ceremony, etc.).
Press, radio broadcasting, television and the Internet. Published on English language: Swaziland Observer and Times of Swaziland dailies, independent newspapers ”) and “Swazi News” (The Swazi News - “News of the Swazi people”). The bi-weekly newspaper Umbiki (Reporter) is published in English and Siswati, and the daily newspaper Tikhatsi Temaswati is published in Siswati. There is no national news agency. The government's Swaziland Broadcasting and Information Service has been operating since 1966. Broadcasts are in English and Siswati. The Swaziland Television Authority was established in 1978 and television programs are broadcast in English. In 2003 there were 27 thousand Internet users.
STORY
pre-colonial period. Swazi (Ama Swazi, Amangwani) descend from the South African group of Ngoni peoples, which in the 18th century. migrated to what is now Swaziland. The core of the kingdom was created in the 19th century. King Sobhuza I, who conquered the lands of the indigenous population, who did not speak the Ngoni languages, and made them part of his kingdom. His successor King Mswati II created a strong army and expanded the territory of his state. Until 1894, the Swazi army successfully resisted the aggressive aspirations of the Afrikaners (Boers) and the British, but then the country's territory became part of the Boer Republic of Transvaal. After the Boer War of 1899–1902, Swaziland was declared a British protectorate. see also british empire.
Sobhuza II held the Swazi royal throne from 1921-1982. He managed to buy back the lands that the British had expropriated for the benefit of foreigners after 1907, and in 1967 achieved internal self-government for Swaziland.
Period of independent development. On September 6, 1968, the independence of the Kingdom of Swaziland was proclaimed. During the long reign of Sobhuza II and his successors, Swaziland sought to maintain good neighborly relations with South Africa.
After the death of King Sobhuza II, the country was ruled by a regency council for four years, and in 1986 Prince Makhosetive ascended the throne, taking the name Mswati III after the coronation. Despite the dissatisfaction of the democratic-minded part of society, he continued to rule as an absolute monarch.
In August 1998, King Mswati III dissolved parliament and called new elections. The opposition refused to participate in them. On the eve of the parliamentary elections and on the day of the Cabinet of Ministers' oath, terrorist acts took place. The government responded with increased repression against dissidents. In 1999, the political opposition and trade unions created the "Democratic Alliance of Swaziland", which organized and held mass demonstrations of the population in support of democratic reforms.
Elections to the House of Assembly took place in October 2003. Charles Magongo S "gayoyo was elected Speaker of the House. The Senate was elected on October 31, 2003, Moses Dlamini became its chairman.
In 2003, a broad civil movement was launched to carry out democratic reforms and improve the standard of living in the country. The opposition accused the king of violating the law he himself issued as part of the fight against AIDS, which imposes a ban on sexual relations with underage girls (his 11th wife was a girl of school age).
Swaziland's external debt is $342 million (2002). GDP in 2004 amounted to 6.02 billion US dollars, and its growth was 2.5%. Inflation in the same year reached 5.4%, and investment - 23.6% of GDP.
The opposition continues to criticize the king (the 37-year-old last absolute monarch of Africa) for the wide scope of his lifestyle. The monarch’s car collection includes numerous Mercedes, each of his 12 wives has their own BMW of the latest models at their disposal, the king’s birthdays are traditionally widely celebrated in the country (in 2005, approx. $10 million).
Continues what started in con. 1999 in order to combat opposition forces, tightening of legislation: a ban was imposed on the activities of political parties and organizations, the rights of trade unions (including to strike) and judges were limited, and censorship was actually introduced in the media.
The problem of corruption is acute. According to the Swaziland Ministry of Finance, released in April 2005 at a meeting of parliament, the national treasury annually loses approx. $80 million.
In the summer of 2005, a conflict arose between the king of Swaziland and the parliament on the adoption of a new constitution: the monarch refused to sign its draft approved by the legislators, which, in particular, provided for the taxation of members of the royal family. After making the necessary changes, on July 26, 2005, King Mswati III signed new constitution a country that has strengthened the absolute monarchy in Swaziland (the powers of the king have been expanded, a ban on the activities of political parties has been confirmed).
Internet resources: http://www.pridetour.ru/guide/africa
Lyubov Prokopenko
LITERATURE
Recent history of Africa. M., "Science", 1968
Svanidze I.A. Lesotho. M., "Science", 1978
Forster, S. and Nsibande, B.S. (Eds.). Swaziland: Contemporary Social and Economic Issues. Aldershot, Ashgate Publishing Ltd, 2000
The World of Learning 2003, 53rd Edition. L.-N.Y.: Europa Publications, 2002
Africa South of the Sahara. 2004. L.-N.Y.: Europa Publications, 2003
African countries and Russia. Directory. M., 2004

Encyclopedia Around the World. 2008 .

SWAZILAND

KINGDOM OF SWAZILAND
State in southeast Africa. In the east it borders with Mozambique, in the southeast, south, west and north - with South Africa. The area of ​​the country is 17363 km2. In the west of the country there is a mountain range rising up to 1220 m, in the center - a plateau, the average height of which is about 610 m, the east of the country is occupied by a low-lying veld. The main rivers of the country are the Komati, the Great Usutu and the Umbeluzi.
The population of Swaziland (estimated in 1998) is about 966,500 people, with an average population density of about 56 people per km2. Ethnic groups: Swazi - 90%, Zulus - 2.3%, Europeans - 2.1%. Language: Swazi, English (both official). The capital is Mbabane (administrative), Lobamba (royal residence). Largest cities: Manzini (53,000 people), Mbabane (47,000 people). The state system is a monarchy. The head of state is King Mswati III (in power since April 25, 1986). The head of government is Prime Minister J. Mbilini Dlamini (in office since 1996). The monetary unit is the lilangeni, and the South African rand is also in free circulation. Average life expectancy (for 1998): 55 years - men, 60 years - women. The birth rate (per 1,000 people) is 41.0. Mortality rate (per 1000 people) - 21.4.
The Royal House of Swaziland has been known for over 400 years and is one of the oldest in Africa. At the end of the 19th century, after the Anglo-Boer War, Swaziland came under the control of the Union of South Africa. In 1907, Swaziland was placed under the jurisdiction of the British High Commissioner for South Africa. In 1967, the country received the right to self-government, and on September 6, 1968, full independence. In 1973, the constitution was abolished and political activity banned. For four years after the death of King Sobuz II, there was no ruler in the country - it was decided which of the 67 sons of the monarch should take the throne. This problem was solved in 1986. Swaziland is a member of the UN, IMF, FAO, WHO, Organization of African Unity. British Commonwealth of Nations.
The highlights of the country are national park and waterfall Malotozha; in Lobamba - National Museum of Swaziland, Parliament House, Queen Mother's Village.

Encyclopedia: cities and countries. 2008 .

Swaziland (Kingdom of Swaziland, Kingdom of Swaziland) is a state in southern Africa. It occupies an area of ​​17.4 thousand square kilometers; population 1.3 million, mostly Swazi. The official language is English and Swazi. Believers are mostly Christians, a third of the population adhere to local traditional beliefs. Administrative-territorial division: 4 districts. The capital is Mbabane (seat of government) and Lobamba (residence of the king and seat of the legislature). Included in the Commonwealth. Swaziland is a constitutional monarchy. The head of state is the king. The legislature is a bicameral parliament (the Senate and the House of Assembly).
The surface is the Veld plateau (height up to 1445 m), decreasing in ledges from west to east. The climate is transitional from subtropical to tropical, arid. The average monthly temperatures in summer are 20-24 °С, in winter 12-15 °С, precipitation is from 500 to 1400 mm per year. Savannah. At the end of the 1830s. a large association of Swazi tribes arose on the territory of Swaziland. In 1903-68. Swaziland - protectorate of Great Britain (cm. Great Britain). Independent state since 1968.
Economically underdeveloped agricultural country. Main agricultural crops: corn, sugarcane, citrus fruits, pineapples, cotton. Transhumance-pasture animal husbandry. Mining of asbestos, coal, iron ore. Artificial afforestations have been created on the site of the reduced primary forests. Logging. Sugar, woodworking, canning factories. Main foreign trade partners: South Africa (cm. Republic of South Africa), Canada , USA (cm. USA), Great Britain . The monetary unit is the lilangeni.

Encyclopedia of Tourism Cyril and Methodius. 2008 .

Synonyms:

Kingdom of Swaziland. State in southern Africa. The capital is the city of Mbabane (80 thousand people - 2003). Territory - 17.4 thousand square meters. km. Administrative-territorial division - 4 districts. Population - 1.17 million people. (2004). The official language is Siswati and English. Religion - Christianity, traditional African beliefs and Islam. The monetary unit is langeni. National holiday - Independence Day (1968), 6 September.

Swaziland is a member of ca. 40 international organizations, including the UN since 1968, the Organization of African Unity (OAU) since 1968, and since 2002 its successor - the African Union (AU), the Non-Aligned Movement, the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA) since 1994, the Community development of Southern Africa (SADC) since 1992, the South African Customs Union (SACU) since 1969 and the Commonwealth (an association of countries that were part of the British Empire).

Nature.

The surface of Swaziland is a highland, lowering eastward to the coastal plain of Mozambique, in three stages: the High Weld (1000-1500 m above sea level), the Middle Weld (400-800 m) and the Low Weld (150-300 m). Located in the west, the High Veld is characterized by a dissected relief, some peaks exceed 1800 m, the highest point is Mount Emlembe (1862 m). The Middle Weld is characterized by a leveled surface and is favorable for farming. The Low Weld is famous for its rich pastures and forests, bounded to the east by the Lebombo Mountains.

Minerals.

Swaziland has significant mineral resources - diamonds, asbestos, gold, iron, coal, kaolin, tin, pyrophyllite, semi-precious stones (beryl, quartz, etc.) and talc.

Dense river network, the largest rivers are Komati, Ngvavuma, Umbeluzi, Usutu. The main rivers of Swaziland cut through these mountains and flow into the Indian Ocean.

Climate.

The High Weld region is characterized by a subtropical climate with average temperatures ranging from 16° to 22° C and an average annual rainfall of 1200-1400 mm or more. The Middle Weld and the Lebombo Mountains are in the transition zone, and the Low Weld is in the tropical climate belt with average temperatures of 20-24°C and an average annual rainfall of 500-700 mm.

Flora- meadow in the High Veld region and forest savannah in the eastern part of the country (various acacias, including Australian, American pines, baobabs, gum tree, xerophytic shrubs, eucalyptus trees, etc.)

Fauna- there are different types of antelopes (including markhorns), hippos, white rhinos, zebras, crocodiles. The tsetse fly is spread throughout the area.

Population.

Population density - approx. 50 people per 1 sq. km (2002). The average annual population growth is 0.25% (the population growth rate has declined sharply due to AIDS, in 2002 it was 1.6%).
Birth rate - 27.12 per 1000 people, mortality - 14.99 per 1000 people. Child mortality - 66.71 per 1000 newborns (data for 2010).
38.6% of the population are children under 14 years of age. Residents who have reached the age of 65 - 3.5%. Life expectancy - 47.97 years (men - 48.14, women - 47.8). (All indicators are given in estimates for 2010).
97% of the population of Swaziland are Swazi (Bantu-speaking people). OK. 3% of the inhabitants are Europeans, mostly British. Siswati, the language of the Swazi people, is the official language along with English.
The urban population is approx. 25% (2008). After the capital, the largest city is Manzini. The traditional labor migration from Swaziland to the mines and farms of the Republic of South Africa continues.

Religions.

OK. 60% of the population are Christians (mostly Protestants), approx. 40% adhere to traditional African beliefs (animalism, fetishism, the cult of ancestors, forces of nature, etc.), there is a small Muslim community (2004). There are also a small number of Baha'i followers. The spread of Christianity began in the beginning. 19th century

GOVERNMENT AND POLITICS

State device.

A constitutional monarchy. The constitution adopted in 1978 as amended in 1992 is in force. The head of state is the king, who has supreme legislative and executive power. The heir to the throne in Swaziland is a prince chosen by members of the royal family. In the event of the death of the king or the minority of the heir to the throne, the queen mother governs the country.

Legislative power is partially exercised by a bicameral parliament, which consists of the House of Assembly (65 deputies) and the Senate (30 deputies). Parliament performs the functions of an advisory body under the king, since it does not accept, but only discusses bills submitted by the government. In addition, the king has the right to veto the decisions of Parliament. The 10 members of the House of Assembly are appointed by the king, while 55 are elected by the people through a complex two-stage scheme. Candidates for voting are put forward by traditional local councils, which consist of chiefs. The 20 members of the Senate are appointed by the King and 10 are elected by the House of Assembly. The term of office of both houses of parliament is 5 years.

In practice, state decisions are made by the king after their discussion in Libandl (National Council, whose members are representatives of the court nobility, the king and the queen mother) and Likoko (a narrow circle of the most trusted members of the royal family).

Executive power is exercised by the government and the prime minister, who is appointed by the king from among the deputies of the House of Assembly.

The national flag is a rectangular panel consisting of three horizontal stripes: two blue (top and bottom) and one red between them. The red stripe is bordered on both sides by narrow stripes of yellow. In the center of the red stripe there is an image of a large black-and-white shield, which covers two parallel spears and a rod decorated with tassels.
administrative device.

The country is divided into 4 regions.

Judicial system.

There is a dual legal system - traditional and constitutional courts. The highest court is the Supreme Court. Decisions made in the traditional courts can be appealed to the constitutional courts.

Armed Forces and Defense.

The armed forces of Swaziland were created in 1973. Compulsory military service (2 years) was introduced in 1983. In 2002, the armed forces numbered approx. 3 thousand people The protection of public order is provided by paramilitary police forces. Defense spending in 2004 was $40.5. USA. (1.4% of GDP).

Foreign policy.

It is based on the policy of non-alignment. The main foreign policy partners are the Republic of South Africa and Mozambique. Relations with Mozambique are complicated by the influx of Mozambican refugees.

The question of establishing bilateral diplomatic relations between the USSR and Swaziland was first discussed in con. 1970s during an unofficial visit to the country by an employee of the embassy of the Soviet Union in Mozambique. King Sobhuza II, under pressure from the then government of South Africa, refused the proposed contacts. Diplomatic relations between the Russian Federation and the Kingdom of Swaziland were established on November 19, 1999.

political organizations.

A multi-party system has developed in the country, but political parties operate on an illegal basis. The most influential of them:
- "Progressive Party of Swaziland" (Swaziland Progressive Party, SPP), chairman. - Nkuku John (John Nquku). Created in 1960 on the basis of the Progressive Association of Swaziland, founded in 1929;

- "Ngwane National Liberation Congress", KNON (Ngwane National Liberatory Congress, NNLC), chairman. - Dlamini Obed (Obed Dlamini), gene. sec. - Dlamini Dumis (Dumisa Dlamini). Party, main. in 1962 as a result of a split in the Swaziland Progressive Party;

- Imbokodvo National Movement, INM (Imbokodvo National Movement, INM), the leader's seat is vacant. Creation Party. in 1964;

- "Swaziland United Front", (Swaziland United Front, SUF), leader - Matsapa Shongwe. Base Party. in 1962.

Trade union associations"Swaziland Federation of Trade Unions" (Swaziland Federation of Trade Unions, SFTU). The association was founded in 1980 and has 83,000 members. Chairman - Richard Nxumalo, Gen. sec. - Jan Sithole.

ECONOMY

The Kingdom of Swaziland is one of the most dynamically developing states of the African continent. One of the highest GDP per capita is noted, the purchasing power of the population in 2004 amounted to 5.1 thousand US dollars.

Labor resources.

The economically active population is 383.2 thousand people. (2000).

Agriculture.

The share of the agricultural sector in GDP is 16.1% (2004). 10.35% of the land is cultivated (2001). 44% of the land is owned by foreign companies and white farmers. The remaining 56% is the property of the entire Swazi people, however, only half of them are allocated for peasant plots. The other half is owned by state-owned companies that produce marketable products. The main cash crops are sugarcane, corn, citrus fruits, pineapples and cotton. Beans, grapefruits, potatoes, rice and sweet potatoes are also grown. Animal husbandry (breeding of cattle, horses, donkeys, pigs, goats and sheep) has no commercial value. The country has the most extensive artificial forest plantations in Africa (120 thousand hectares). The annual catch of freshwater fish (carp, tilapia, etc.) is 70 tons (2000).

Industry.

Share in GDP - 43.4% (2004). The basis of industry is the manufacturing industry, which gives approx. 35% of GDP (2002). There are enterprises processing agricultural products - sugar and cotton ginning plants, woodworking plants, canning factories for processing fruits and vegetables. New manufacturing industries have been created - footwear, textiles, clothing and electronics (computer assembly), the production of cotton yarn and synthetic fibers, as well as the assembly of buses and refrigerators. There are enterprises for the production of cardboard, leather haberdashery, glass, building materials and electrical equipment.

The mining industry is falling into decline due to a drop in demand for asbestos, as well as a lack of modern equipment. Coal mining in 2004 amounted to approx. 600 thousand tons

International trade.

The volume of imports exceeds the volume of exports: in 2004, imports (in US dollars) amounted to 1.14 billion US dollars, exports - 900.1 million US dollars. The main imports are machinery, oil products, equipment, foodstuffs, industrial consumer goods, vehicles and chemical products. The main import partners are South Africa (95.6%), EU countries (0.9%), Japan (0.9%) and England (0.3%) - 2004. The main export commodities are soft drink concentrates, pulp ( wood pulp), sugar, cotton yarn, refrigerators and citrus fruits. The main export partners are South Africa (59.7%), EU countries (8.8%), USA (8.8%) and Mozambique (6.2%) - 2004.

Swaziland is a member of the South African Customs Union (SACU), established in 1969 (in addition to it, it also includes Botswana, Lesotho, Namibia and South Africa). The percentage received from general customs duties under this sub-regional organization represents about half of Swaziland's budget revenues.

Energy.

The country has a significant potential of mountain rivers. Electricity production in 2002 amounted to 402 million kilowatt-hours. The most powerful hydroelectric power station in the country is Luphohlo-Ezulvini, there are also Maguga hydroelectric power stations on the Komati River and a hydroelectric plant built near the city of Mbabane. 80% of electricity consumed is imported from South Africa, a small part of electricity is imported from Mozambique. Electricity import in 2002 amounted to 799 million kilowatt-hours.

Transport.

The total length of railways is 301 km (2004). Swaziland's railways are linked to the South African and Mozambican railway network. The length of roads - 3.8 thousand km (with a hard surface - 1064 km of roads) - 2002. There are 18 airports and runways (2 of them have a hard surface) - 2004. International airports are located 40 km from the city. Mbabane and Matsapha (near Manzini).

Finance and credit.

The financial system of Swaziland is closely tied to the financial system of South Africa. Monetary unit - langeni (SZL), consisting of 100 cents, 1 langeni is equal to 1 South African rand. In accordance with the agreement on a common currency area, the South African rand in Swaziland is legal tender on a par with langeni. In 2004, the national currency rate was: 1 USD = 6,459 SZL.

Tourism.

It is a fast-growing sector of the economy, has been developing dynamically since 1994. Foreign tourists are attracted by picturesque mountain landscapes, a variety of wildlife, the possibility of safaris, as well as the original culture of the local population. In 2001, 283.12 foreign tourists visited the country, mostly from South Africa. Tourism revenue in 2000 was $47 million.

Attractions: mountain peaks of the High Veld, the National Museum of Swaziland (Lobamba).

SOCIETY AND CULTURE

Education.


The first schools were opened during Christian missions in the beginning. 19th century

The education system is underdeveloped, education is not compulsory. Primary schools (the term of study is 7 years) are attended by children from the age of 6. Secondary education (5 years) begins at the age of 13 and takes place in two stages - three and two years. Primary education covers 98% of children of the corresponding age (2002). The system of higher education includes the University of Swaziland (located in the suburbs of Manzini Kvaluseni, opened in 1964 as an integral part of the University of Botswana, Lesotho and Swaziland, received the status of an independent university in 1976), agricultural and pedagogical institutes. In 2002, 18.4% of state funds were allocated from the budget for the needs of the education system. In 2003, 81.6% of the population were literate (82.6% of men and 80.8% of women).

Healthcare.

Swaziland is among the African countries with the highest incidence of AIDS - 38.8% (2003). In 2003, there were 220 thousand AIDS patients and HIV-infected people, 17 thousand people died. AIDS is officially declared a national disaster. In order to limit the spread of the disease, in 2001 King Mswati III issued a decree prohibiting underage girls from having sex.

The lack of clean drinking water (about 40% of the population has constant access to it) leads to outbreaks of intestinal infections. In 2000, health spending was 4.2% of GDP.

In the UN report on the human development of the planet in 2001, Swaziland stood at 133rd place.

Fine Arts and Crafts.

The origin of the fine arts in Swaziland began long before our era. e. In the caves and grottoes of the Dragon Mountains, rock paintings of the Bushmen have been preserved - images of people, animals or fantastic creatures, made with mineral and earthen paints, as well as lime and soot, diluted in water and animal fat.

Of the crafts and arts and crafts, pottery, blacksmithing, metalworking (bronze and copper), weaving of grass and straw baskets and mats, the production of leather goods, as well as wood and horn carving are common. Products of folk craftsmen are presented in the exposition of the National Museum of Swaziland in Lobamba (founded in 1972).

Music. Playing musical instruments, songs and dances are closely connected with the daily life of the Swazi people. Traditional rituals are accompanied by singing and dancing (women's dance with knives, "reeds" - the dance of girls during the initiation ceremony, etc.).

Press, radio broadcasting, television and the Internet.

Published in English: daily newspapers "Swaziland Observer" (Swaziland Observer - "Observer of Swaziland") and "Times of Swaziland" (Times of Swaziland - "Time of Swaziland", an independent newspaper), weekly newspapers "News from Swaziland" (News from Swaziland - "News of Swaziland") and "Swazi News" (The Swazi News - "News of the Swazi People"). The bi-weekly newspaper Umbiki (Reporter) is published in English and Siswati, and the daily newspaper Tikhatsi Temaswati is published in Siswati. There is no national news agency. The government's Swaziland Broadcasting and Information Service has been operating since 1966. Broadcasts are in English and Siswati. The Swaziland Television Authority was established in 1978 and television programs are broadcast in English. In 2003 there were 27 thousand Internet users.

STORY

pre-colonial period.

Swazi (Ama Swazi, Amangwani) descend from the South African group of Ngoni peoples, which in the 18th century. migrated to what is now Swaziland. The core of the kingdom was created in the 19th century. King Sobhuza I, who conquered the lands of the indigenous population, who did not speak the Ngoni languages, and made them part of his kingdom. His successor, King Mswati II, created a strong army and expanded the territory of his state. Until 1894, the Swazi army successfully resisted the aggressive aspirations of the Afrikaners (Boers) and the British, but then the country's territory became part of the Boer Republic of Transvaal. After the Anglo-Boer War of 1899-1902, Swaziland was declared a British protectorate. See also BRITISH EMPIRE.

Sobhuza II held the Swazi royal throne from 1921-1982. He managed to buy back the lands that the British had expropriated for the benefit of foreigners after 1907, and in 1967 achieved internal self-government for Swaziland.
Period of independent development.

On September 6, 1968, the independence of the Kingdom of Swaziland was proclaimed. During the long reign of Sobhuza II and his successors, Swaziland sought to maintain good neighborly relations with South Africa.

After the death of King Sobhuza II, the country was ruled by a regency council for four years, and in 1986 Prince Makhosetive ascended the throne, taking the name Mswati III after the coronation. Despite the dissatisfaction of the democratic-minded part of society, he continued to rule as an absolute monarch.

In August 1998, King Mswati III dissolved parliament and called new elections. The opposition refused to participate in them. On the eve of the parliamentary elections and on the day of the Cabinet of Ministers' oath, terrorist acts took place. The government responded with increased repression against dissidents. In 1999, the political opposition and trade unions created the "Democratic Alliance of Swaziland", which organized and held mass demonstrations of the population in support of democratic reforms.

Elections to the House of Assembly took place in October 2003. Charles Magongo S "gayoyo was elected Speaker of the House. The Senate was elected on October 31, 2003, Moses Dlamini became its chairman.

In 2003, a broad civil movement was launched to carry out democratic reforms and improve the standard of living in the country. The opposition accused the king of violating the law he himself issued as part of the fight against AIDS, which imposes a ban on sexual relations with underage girls (his 11th wife was a girl of school age).

Swaziland's external debt is $342 million (2002). GDP in 2004 amounted to 6.02 billion US dollars, and its growth - 2.5%. Inflation in the same year reached 5.4%, and investment - 23.6% of GDP.

The opposition continues to criticize the king (the 37-year-old last absolute monarch of Africa) for the wide scope of his lifestyle. The monarch’s car collection includes numerous Mercedes, each of his 12 wives has their own latest BMW car, traditionally the king’s birthdays are widely celebrated in the country (in 2005, approx. $10 million).

Continues what started in con. 1999 in order to combat opposition forces, tightening of legislation: a ban was imposed on the activities of political parties and organizations, the rights of trade unions (including to strike) and judges were limited, and censorship was actually introduced in the media.

The problem of corruption is acute. According to the Swaziland Ministry of Finance, released in April 2005 at a meeting of parliament, the national treasury annually loses approx. $80 million.

In the summer of 2005, a conflict arose between the king of Swaziland and the parliament on the adoption of a new constitution: the monarch refused to sign its draft approved by the legislators, which, in particular, provided for the taxation of members of the royal family. After making the necessary changes, on July 26, 2005, King Mswati III signed a new constitution for the country, which strengthened the absolute monarchy in Swaziland (the powers of the king were expanded, the ban on the activities of political parties was confirmed).

In September 2008, parliamentary elections were held in the country, which international observers considered pointless due to the lack of political parties in the struggle for parliamentary seats. All candidates for seats in parliament are private individuals. About 400,000 residents of Swaziland with voting rights elected 55 deputies of the House of Assembly, another 10 parliamentarians are appointed by King Mswati III.