Independence Day of Eswatini: Celebrating Freedom from the United Kingdom Since 1968
Eswatini Independence Day, celebrated annually on September 6, marks the momentous occasion when the Kingdom of Eswatini (formerly known as Swaziland) gained sovereignty from British colonial rule in 1968. This national holiday, also known as Somhlolo Day in honor of King Sobhuza I (whose name means "Wonder" in SiSwati), represents not merely a political transition but the culmination of a long struggle for self-determination and the preservation of Swazi cultural identity. The day serves as a powerful symbol of national unity and cultural resilience for the Swazi people, who maintained their distinctive traditions throughout decades of colonial administration. As Africa's last absolute monarchy, Eswatini's independence narrative offers a unique perspective on post-colonial development, traditional governance systems, and the complex interplay between modernity and tradition in contemporary African society.
The independence achieved in 1968 was neither sudden nor easily won. Rather, it represented the endpoint of a carefully negotiated transition that balanced traditional authority structures with the necessities of modern statehood. This comprehensive analysis examines the historical context, political evolution, cultural significance, and contemporary relevance of Eswatini's Independence Day, drawing upon multiple sources to present a nuanced understanding of this pivotal event in Southern African history. Through this exploration, we can appreciate how September 6, 1968, continues to shape the national consciousness of Eswatini and influence its development trajectory more than five decades later.
Historical Context: Pre-Colonial and Colonial Foundations
Pre-Colonial Swazi Nation
The territory now known as Eswatini has been inhabited for thousands of years, with artifacts indicating human activity dating back to the early Stone Age. The earliest known inhabitants were Khoisan hunter-gatherers, who were largely replaced during the great Bantu migrations. People speaking languages ancestral to current Sotho and Nguni languages began settling in the region no later than the 11th century . The modern Swazi people emerged from these Nguni-speaking groups who migrated from the Great Lakes regions of eastern and central Africa, with evidence of agriculture and iron use dating from about the 4th century.
The Swazi settlers, then known as the Ngwane (or bakaNgwane), before entering present-day Eswatini had been settled on the banks of the Pongola River and prior to that in the area of the Tembe River near present-day Maputo, Mozambique
. Under the leadership of King Ngwane III (1745-1780), considered the first King of modern Swaziland, they established their capital at Shiselweni at the foot of the Mhlosheni hills . The Swazi nation was consolidated and expanded under subsequent rulers, particularly Sobhuza I (1815-1839) and Mswati II (1839-1865), from whom the country derives its name. Mswati II was renowned as the greatest fighting king of Eswatini, greatly extending the area of the country to twice its current size through military campaigns and diplomatic skill.Colonial Encroachment and Administration
European contact with the Swazi people began when Dutch Trekboers reached the western hinterland of Swaziland in the 1840s . By 1845, approximately 300 Boer families had settled in the area, and through deeds of sale dated 1846 and 1855, Swazi territory was gradually transferred to Dutch republics for sums totaling about 170 cattle. These agreements, often vague in wording, would later form the basis of contentious land disputes.
The British government initially signed conventions recognizing Swazi independence in 1881, with the Pretoria Convention establishing nominal British suzerainty over the re-established Transvaal State while guaranteeing Swaziland's independence, boundaries, and people under Article 24 . The London Convention of 1884 continued to recognize Swaziland as an independent country with King Mbandzeni as its sovereign . However, during Mbandzeni's reign (1875-1889), the granting of numerous concessions to Europeans for agriculture, grazing, mining, and administrative functions created a complex pattern of land ownership and diminished Swazi control over their territory.
Following the Anglo-Boer War (1899-1902), Britain emerged victorious and assumed effective control over Swaziland. The Land Proclamation Act of 1907 effectively restricted Swazis to only one-third of the land (Swazi Nation Land), while two-thirds were allocated as concessions to white settlers . This dispossession created lasting economic and social challenges that would continue long after independence.
Table: Key Events in Colonial Eswatini
| Year | Event | Significance |
|---|---|---|
| 1894 | Swaziland placed under South African Republic as protectorate | Loss of sovereignty to Boer administration |
| 1903 | British administration begins | Swaziland becomes British High Commission Territory |
| 1907 | Land Proclamation Act | Swazis restricted to only one-third of traditional lands |
| 1921 | Advisory Council established | First legislative body with European representatives |
| 1921 | Sobhuza II becomes Ngwenyama | Beginning of 61-year reign that would guide transition to independence |
The Road to Independence: Political Awakening and Negotiation
Rise of National Consciousness
The early 20th century saw the gradual emergence of political consciousness in Eswatini, influenced by both internal developments and external factors. The regency of Queen Labotsibeni (1899-1921) was particularly significant, as she mobilized resources to buy back land from European settlers, ostensibly for the nation but effectively strengthening royal control over territory and people . During this period, the Swazi population experienced a transformation from predominantly peasant consciousness to increasingly proletarian consciousness as capitalism spread and Swazis were compelled to seek work in farms and mines, primarily in South Africa.
The accession of King Sobhuza II in 1921 marked a pivotal moment in Swaziland's journey toward independence. His reign, which would last an remarkable 61 years, provided continuity and strategic leadership through the final decades of colonial rule. Initially, the British expected that Swaziland would eventually be incorporated into South Africa, but following World War II, South Africa's intensification of racial discrimination through apartheid policies led Britain to prepare Swaziland for independence instead.
Political Mobilization and Constitutional Development
Political activity intensified in the early 1960s, with several political parties forming to advocate for independence and economic development. These included the largely urban-based parties such as the Ngwane National Liberatory Congress (NNLC) and more radical groups, which had limited ties to rural areas where the majority of Swazis lived . In response, traditional Swazi leaders, including King Sobhuza II and his Inner Council, formed the Imbokodvo National Movement (INM), a political group that capitalized on its close identification with Swazi traditional values and way of life.
The colonial government scheduled elections in mid-1964 for the first legislative council in which Swazis would participate. The INM won all 24 elective seats, solidifying its political base and incorporating demands for immediate independence that had been championed by more radical parties . In 1966, the British government agreed to discuss a new constitution, and a constitutional committee agreed on a constitutional monarchy for Swaziland, with self-government to follow parliamentary elections in 1967.
The 1968 constitution established a Westminster-style parliamentary system with a bill of rights but also contained crucial provisions regarding land and resource ownership. Chapter VIII stated that "All land which is vested in the Ngwenyama in trust for the Swazi nation shall continue so to vest subject to the provision of this constitution," while similar clauses gave the king exclusive rights to mineral resources discovered after the constitution's promulgation . This constitutional framework represented a compromise between traditional authority and modern governance structures that would shape post-independence political developments.
Independence Achieved: September 6, 1968
The Transfer of Power
On September 6, 1968, the Kingdom of Swaziland formally achieved independence from the United Kingdom within the Commonwealth of Nations . The transfer of power was marked by ceremonies in the capital and celebrations throughout the country. The United States immediately recognized the new nation and established an embassy in Mbabane, with Chris C. Pappas, Jr., serving as Chargé d'Affaires ad interim . Swaziland was admitted as a member of the United Nations on September 11, 1968, just five days after gaining independence.
The independence celebrations emphasized both national sovereignty and cultural continuity, with traditional dances, music, and ceremonies featuring prominently alongside formal diplomatic events. The day was named Somhlolo Day in honor of King Sobhuza I (also known as Somhlolo, meaning "Wonder"), who ruled from 1815 to 1839 and is revered as the founder of the Swazi nation for his role in unifying various clans and establishing a centralized monarchy .
Constitutional Framework and Initial Governance
At independence, Swaziland adopted a constitutional monarchy model with a parliamentary system. The 1968 constitution provided for a bicameral parliament consisting of a House of Assembly and Senate, with a balance between elected and appointed members . The king retained significant authority, including the power to assent to legislation passed by parliament before it could become law.
The first post-independence elections were held in May 1972, with the INM receiving close to 75% of the vote and the NNLC gaining slightly more than 20% of the vote, which translated to three seats in parliament . The NNLC's showing, though modest, represented the first parliamentary opposition in independent Swaziland and prompted a significant political response from the monarchy.
Post-Independence Political Evolution
The 1973 Decree and Concentration of Power
In response to the NNLC's electoral performance and growing political opposition, King Sobhuza II repealed the 1968 constitution on April 12, 1973, through a royal decree. He dissolved parliament, assumed all powers of government, and prohibited all political activities and trade unions from operating . The king justified his actions as necessary to remove "alien and divisive political practices incompatible with the Swazi way of life".
This move marked a decisive shift toward absolute monarchy and the suppression of multiparty democracy. King Sobhuza II established the Umbutfo Swaziland Defence Force (USDF) to defend the monarchy and introduced a new constitution in 1978 that restored parliament but through an indirect electoral system based on Tinkhundla (traditional constituencies) rather than political parties . The new constitution provided for a House of Assembly with 50 members, 40 of whom would be elected by an electoral college chosen by traditional constituencies, and 10 appointed by the monarch. The Senate would consist of 20 members elected by the House of Assembly (10) and appointed by the monarch (10).
Succession and Continued Monarchial Rule
King Sobhuza II died in August 1982, leading to a period of regency and internal strife within the royal family . Queen Dzeliwe initially assumed the duties of head of state but was deposed in 1983 and replaced by Queen Ntombi Laftwala, mother of Crown Prince Makhosetive Dlamini . The Liqoqo (Supreme Traditional Advisory Body) briefly wielded significant power during this period until Prince Makhosetive returned from school in England to ascend to the throne as King Mswati III on April 25, 1986.
King Mswati III continued the system of monarchial rule, maintaining the ban on political parties while introducing limited reforms. In the 1990s, faced with growing pro-democracy activism from organizations such as the People's United Democratic Movement (PUDEMO) and trade unions, the king established a Constitutional Review Commission in 1996 to draft a new constitution . The resulting constitution, promulgated in 2005, maintained the ban on political parties while providing for a slightly more representative parliamentary structure.
Table: Post-Independence Political Developments
| Year | Event | Political Significance |
|---|---|---|
| 1972 | First post-independence elections | NNLC wins three seats, demonstrating opposition presence |
| 1973 | Repeal of 1968 constitution | Beginning of absolute monarchy, ban on political parties |
| 1978 | New constitution established | Tinkhundla system of indirect elections implemented |
| 1982 | Death of Sobhuza II | Period of regency and royal succession struggle |
| 1986 | Coronation of Mswati III | Current king ascends to throne |
| 1996 | Constitutional Review Commission | Process leading to 2005 constitution begins |
| 2005 | New constitution promulgated | Political parties remain banned despite limited reforms |
| 2018 | Country renamed Eswatini | Assertion of cultural identity on 50th independence anniversary |
Socio-Economic Development Since Independence
Economic Progress and Challenges
Since independence, Eswatini has developed a mixed economy with significant state involvement and strong ties to South Africa. The country is classified as having a lower-middle income economy but faces severe income inequality and high poverty rates . According to 2017 World Bank data cited in the search results, 58.9% of Eswatini's citizens live in poverty despite the country's relative wealth compared to other Sub-Saharan African nations.
The economy is composed primarily of agriculture (approximately 9.6% of GDP) and manufacturing (36.3% of GDP), with sugar refining, wood pulp production, and textiles being significant sectors . Eswatini's main exports include soft drink concentrates, sugar, pulp, canned fruits, and cotton yarn, with South Africa and the European Union serving as major markets . The country remains heavily dependent on South Africa, which accounts for approximately 85% of its imports and 60% of its exports.
The dual land tenure system established during the colonial era continues to influence economic development. Approximately 60% of land remains under traditional tenure as Swazi Nation Land, held "in trust" by the king for the nation, while the remainder is title deed land . This system has complicated agricultural development and economic planning while reinforcing traditional authority structures.
Social Development and Health Challenges
Eswatini faces profound public health challenges, most notably HIV/AIDS, which affects 28% of the adult population—the highest rate in the world . The epidemic has contributed significantly to the country's low life expectancy of 58 years (as of 2018) and has created a substantial population of orphans and vulnerable children . Tuberculosis is also widespread, further straining the healthcare system.
Despite these challenges, Eswatini has made progress in education access, with 95% primary school attendance and 44% secondary school attendance, and a literacy rate of 75% . The country has invested in infrastructure development and maintains close economic ties through its membership in the Southern African Customs Union and the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa.
Cultural Significance and Celebration of Independence Day
Traditional Celebrations and National Identity
Somhlolo Day is marked by vibrant celebrations across Eswatini, particularly in the royal capital of Lobamba . Key events include ceremonies at Somhlolo National Stadium featuring speeches, cultural displays, traditional dances, and music . Families gather for traditional meals, and public institutions and homes display the national flag in honor of the day. These celebrations emphasize cultural continuity and national unity, reflecting the central role of traditional institutions in Swazi society.
The day serves as an occasion for citizens to reflect on their nation's journey to independence and to celebrate their cultural identity. It reinforces the resilience and pride of the Swazi people in maintaining their traditions and sovereignty despite external pressures and internal challenges . The reed dance (Umhlanga) and kingship dance (incwala) are among the nation's most important cultural events, though these are separate from Independence Day celebrations.
The 2018 Renaming and Golden Jubilee
In 2018, on its 50th independence anniversary, King Mswati III announced that the country would be renamed the Kingdom of Eswatini, meaning "land of the Swazis" . This change marked the culmination of decades of effort to assert the country's cultural identity and avoid confusion with Switzerland. The golden jubilee celebrations emphasized both the nation's historical achievements and its aspirations for the future, though they occurred amid ongoing debates about political representation and economic inequality.
International Relations and Diplomatic Context
Global Engagement and Partnerships
Since independence, Eswatini has maintained active international engagement while preserving its distinctive political system. The country is a member of the United Nations, the Commonwealth of Nations, the African Union, and regional organizations including the Southern African Development Community . Eswatini's major overseas trading partners are the United States and the European Union, though its economy remains inextricably linked to South Africa through the Southern African Customs Union.
The United States recognized Eswatini immediately upon independence on September 6, 1968, and established an embassy in Mbabane . Relations have been generally positive, though the U.S. has occasionally expressed concerns about human rights issues and the lack of political reform.
Regional Relations and Challenges
Eswatini's relationship with South Africa has been particularly important given historical, economic, and demographic ties. During the apartheid era, Swaziland maintained complex and sometimes contradictory relations with its neighbor, occasionally cooperating on security matters while also hosting South African political exiles . In the post-apartheid period, economic dependence has continued, with many Eswatini citizens traveling to South Africa for work and sending remittances home.
The country has faced criticism from regional partners and international organizations for its human rights record, particularly regarding political participation, freedom of expression, and women's rights . These tensions have occasionally led to diplomatic friction, though Eswatini has generally maintained correct relations with its neighbors despite political differences.
Contemporary Reflections and Future Prospects
Critical Perspectives on Independence
While Independence Day is officially celebrated as a national achievement, alternative narratives question the extent to which true independence was achieved for most Swazis. Critics argue that the 1968 independence represented a transfer of power from British colonial rulers to the Dlamini monarchy rather than to the Swazi people as a whole . This perspective views the current system as a form of neo-colonialism in which traditional elites maintained control through alliances with former colonial powers and international capital.
The constitutional settlement that vested land and mineral resources in the monarchy "in trust for the nation" has been particularly criticized for consolidating economic power in the hands of the royal family rather than distributing it broadly among the population . This arrangement has contributed to persistent economic inequality, with the monarchy controlling extensive assets through the Tibiyo Taka Ngwane fund established by Sobhuza II in 1968.
Ongoing Challenges and Future Directions
As Eswatini moves further into the 21st century, it faces significant challenges including economic diversification, public health crises (particularly HIV/AIDS), youth unemployment, and political reform pressures. The country's absolute monarchy system remains an anomaly in Africa and increasingly faces calls for democratization from both internal activists and international partners .
The tension between traditional governance and modern democratic expectations continues to shape Eswatini's political landscape. While the monarchy remains popular with many Swazis who view it as a guardian of cultural identity, there is growing demand particularly among urban youth for greater political participation and accountability . How Eswatini balances these competing demands will likely determine its trajectory in the coming decades.
Conclusion:
Eswatini's Independence Day represents more than just the transfer of political power from Britain to indigenous rulers—it embodies the complex negotiation between tradition and modernity that has characterized the nation's development. The events of September 6, 1968, initiated an ongoing process of nation-building that continues to evolve more than five decades later.
While substantial achievements have been made in preserving cultural heritage and maintaining political stability, significant challenges remain in addressing economic inequality, health crises, and political participation. The recent renaming to Eswatini reflects continued efforts to assert national identity in a changing global context, even as debates persist about the meaning and implementation of true independence.
As citizens gather each year at Somhlolo Stadium and in communities across Eswatini to celebrate Somhlolo Day, they engage not only in remembrance of past struggles but also in an ongoing conversation about their nation's future. The endurance of Eswatini's distinctive political system amidst regional democratization demonstrates the persistent appeal of traditional authority, even as new generations imagine alternative political arrangements. Ultimately, Independence Day serves as an annual opportunity to reflect on both the accomplishments since 1968 and the unfinished work of building a nation that truly serves all its people.
Photo from: iStock
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