Indepenedence day

6 September

Swaziland Independence Day is a national holiday held every year on September 6. It is the official holiday that celebrates Swaziland gaining its independence from Britain in 1968. Britain had ruled over the nation since 1903. The British took control of Swaziland as a protectorate after the Boer administration collapsed at the end of the “Anglo-Boer War.” Swaziland was eventually granted formal independence within the Commonwealth. The holiday is also called Somhlolo Day or Sobhuza Day. eSwatini, or Swaziland, is the second smallest country in Africa. The country lost large parts of its territory when the Pretoria Convention of 1881 guaranteed its independence.

Swaziland adopted its first constitution in 1964 and this led to meaningful movements toward independence. Self-government was introduced once independence was gained. This followed the new constitution that came in 1967. Swaziland is the only country in Africa not currently practicing multiparty democracy. The country has one of the world’s last remaining absolute monarchies. The Swazi king rules the nation by decree.

The country has a lot of interesting history that is shared on independence day. People get a better understanding of the events that have taken place in the country and led to their current leadership. This awareness creates a better sense of patriotism among people which is always good for unity and good morale. The celebrations last all day long and people celebrate in their way. There are different activities like traditional dances and performances that take place during the day.