Eswatini: Capital, Flag and Fun Facts

About Eswatini

Eswatini is a small, landlocked kingdom in southern Africa, almost completely surrounded by South Africa, with Mozambique to the east. It has mountains, valleys and grassy plains. It is known for colourful traditional festivals and its game reserves.

About Mbabane

Mbabane lies in the cool, hilly highlands of northwestern Eswatini, beside the Mbabane River. Nearby Sibebe Rock is one of the largest exposed granite domes in the world.

Fun facts about Eswatini

1. Eswatini was called Swaziland until 2018, when the king changed the name.
2. Ngwenya Mine is considered one of the world's oldest known mines, worked for red ochre over 40,000 years ago.
3. Sibebe Rock near Mbabane is one of the largest exposed granite domes in the world.
4. During the yearly Umhlanga, or Reed Dance, thousands of young women bring reeds to the queen mother.
5. Eswatini's flag shows a black-and-white shield with two spears and a staff with feather tassels.
6. The lion and the elephant are national symbols, standing for the king and the queen mother.