The country is landlocked, small, and geographically diverse, with a population of roughly 1.14 million. Economic activity is driven by agriculture, manufacturing, and regional trade, while governance reforms and political dialogue remain limited.

Introduction

Eswatini—formerly Swaziland until 2018—is a landlocked Southern African kingdom known for its dual-capital system (Mbabane and Lobamba) and its strong traditional monarchy. The country continues to face poverty, corruption, and political tensions, despite being classified as lower-middle income.

Geography

Eswatini is located between South Africa and Mozambique, covering 17,364 sq km. The terrain includes mountains, hills, and plains, with climates ranging from tropical to near temperate. Natural resources include asbestos, coal, hydropower, forests, and small mineral deposits.

People and Society

The population is predominantly Swazi, with Swazi and English as official languages. Christianity is the dominant religion. Eswatini has the world’s highest HIV/AIDS prevalence, though infection rates have been declining. Population distribution is uneven due to mountainous terrain, with most people living in valleys and plains.

Government

Eswatini is an absolute monarchy, with King Mswati III holding significant authority. The 2005 constitution introduced some parliamentary reforms, but the legal status of political parties remains unclear, and political freedoms are limited. A new prime minister was appointed in 2023 following peaceful elections, but promised national dialogue after 2021 unrest has not materialized.

Population (2025 Estimate)

• 1,137,268 people
• Density: ~65–67 people per sq km (varies by source)

Economy

Eswatini’s economy is small and vulnerable, with GDP around $4.89B and per capita income near $10,400 (PPP). Key sectors include:

• Agriculture (sugar, citrus, livestock)
• Manufacturing (textiles, processed foods)
• Services and regional trade

Challenges include high unemployment, corruption, and dependence on South Africa for trade and currency stability.

Energy

Eswatini has hydropower potential, though it imports much of its electricity from South Africa. Natural resources include hydropower sites, coal, and biomass.

Communications

The country uses the .sz internet domain and has expanding mobile and internet penetration, though rural connectivity remains limited. English and Swazi are widely used in media and communication.

Transportation

Eswatini has no coastline and relies on road networks and regional corridors through South Africa and Mozambique. Terrain affects infrastructure distribution, with better connectivity in lowland areas.

Military and Security

Eswatini maintains modest defense and security forces, primarily focused on internal stability. Security forces were used to suppress pro-democracy protests in 2021, and political tensions remain a concern.

Travel Advice (General)

Travelers should be aware of:

• Occasional political unrest and demonstrations
• Rural road hazards and limited night lighting
• Health risks including HIV prevalence and regional disease exposure

(Always verify with your government’s official travel advisory.)

Expected Trends for 2026

Based on 2025 conditions and recent developments:

• Political environment: Continued pressure for reforms; limited likelihood of major constitutional change unless dialogue resumes.
• Economic outlook: Slow but steady growth tied to agriculture and regional trade; vulnerability to drought persists.
• Social indicators: Gradual improvement in HIV outcomes; unemployment likely to remain high.
• International relations: Continued unique diplomatic stance as the only African country recognizing Taiwan.