Eswatini: general information about country, happiness index 2024

World Happiness Report for Eswatini 2024

  • Overall Happiness Rank Eswatini: 135
  • Happiness Score Eswatini:3.502

Happiness is a subjective concept that has long been debated by philosophers, psychologists, and economists alike. However, in recent years, there has been a growing interest in quantifying happiness and using it as a measure of a nation’s overall well-being. This is where the concept of the Happiness Index comes into play.

What is the Happiness Index?

The Happiness Index is a measure that attempts to quantify the overall happiness and life satisfaction of a country’s population. It is based on the idea that traditional economic indicators, such as Gross Domestic Product (GDP), do not fully capture the overall well-being of a society. The Happiness Index takes into account various factors that contribute to an individual’s sense of happiness and life satisfaction, including social support, freedom to make life choices, healthy life expectancy, and perceptions of corruption.

How is the Happiness Index Calculated?

The Happiness Index is calculated through a combination of subjective and objective data. The primary source of data is the Gallup World Poll, which is a survey conducted in over 160 countries. The survey asks respondents to rate their overall life satisfaction on a scale of 0 to 10, with 0 being the worst possible life and 10 being the best possible life.

In addition to the life satisfaction score, the Happiness Index also takes into account the following factors:

  1. GDP per capita: This is a measure of a country’s economic output and standard of living.
  2. Social support: This factor measures the extent to which individuals have supportive relationships and love in their lives.
  3. Healthy life expectancy: This is a measure of the number of years an individual is expected to live in good health.
  4. Freedom to make life choices: This factor measures the extent to which individuals are able to make decisions about their lives without external constraints.
  5. Generosity: This factor measures the extent to which individuals engage in charitable activities and donate to others.
  6. Perceptions of corruption: This factor measures the extent to which individuals perceive their society to be free from corruption.

These factors are weighted and combined to produce an overall Happiness Index score for each country.

What Does the Happiness Index Affect?

The Happiness Index has significant implications for policymaking and societal well-being. Countries with higher Happiness Index scores are generally considered to have better overall quality of life and well-being for their citizens. This can have positive impacts on various aspects of society, including:

  1. Economic productivity: Happier individuals tend to be more productive and engaged in their work, which can contribute to a country’s economic growth.
  2. Public health: Higher levels of happiness and life satisfaction are associated with better physical and mental health outcomes, which can reduce healthcare costs and improve overall well-being.
  3. Social cohesion: Societies with higher levels of happiness tend to have stronger social bonds and lower levels of conflict and crime.
  4. Environmental sustainability: Happier individuals may be more likely to engage in environmentally-friendly behaviors and support policies that promote sustainability.

By focusing on the factors that contribute to happiness and well-being, policymakers can develop strategies to improve the overall quality of life for their citizens. The Happiness Index provides a valuable tool for measuring progress and identifying areas where improvements can be made.

Short information

  • Abbreviation of Eswatini. SZ.

    Eswatini is a country located in Southern Africa, known for its monarchy political structure and rich cultural traditions.

  • It is one of the few remaining absolute monarchies in the world, with King Mswati III serving as the head of state and government.
  • Eswatini is renowned for its vibrant traditional dances, music, and art, and is home to the annual Umhlanga (Reed Dance) ceremony, a cultural event that attracts visitors from around the world.
  • The country’s economy is largely based on agriculture, with a significant portion of the population engaged in subsistence farming and livestock rearing.
  • Eswatini: A Comprehensive Overview

    Early History: The earliest inhabitants of the region now known as Eswatini were the San people, hunter-gatherers who lived in the area for thousands of years. Around the 15th century, Bantu-speaking groups migrated into the region, gradually displacing the San people.

    Kingdoms and Empires: In the early 19th century, King Ngwane III established the Swazi Kingdom, uniting various clans under his rule. The kingdom expanded through conquest and alliance-building, eventually becoming the modern-day Eswatini.

    Colonial Period: In the late 19th century, the Swazi Kingdom became a protectorate of the British Empire, known as the Swaziland Protectorate. The British exerted significant control over the kingdom’s affairs but allowed the Swazi monarchy to remain in power.

    Independence and Modern Era: Eswatini (formerly known as Swaziland) gained independence from Britain in 1968. The country has been ruled by the Dlamini monarchy since independence, with King Mswati III currently in power. Eswatini has faced economic challenges and political tensions, including calls for democratic reforms.

    Current Political Situation: Eswatini is an absolute monarchy, with King Mswati III holding executive power. The country has a bicameral parliament, but political parties are banned from participating in elections. The government has faced criticism for its suppression of dissent and human rights issues.

    International Relations: Eswatini maintains close ties with its neighbors, particularly South Africa, and is a member of regional organizations like the Southern African Development Community (SADC). The country has also sought to strengthen economic partnerships with countries like Taiwan and China.

    Human Development and Economy: Eswatini has a predominantly agriculture-based economy, with sugar and forestry products being major exports. However, the country faces high levels of poverty, income inequality, and unemployment. Eswatini also has a high prevalence of HIV/AIDS, which has impacted its human development.

    Cultural Highlights: Eswatini is known for its rich cultural heritage, including traditional Swazi attire, music, and dance. The Umhlanga Reed Dance and the Incwala Kingship Ceremony are important cultural events celebrated annually. The Swazi language and traditional beliefs, such as ancestor veneration, play a significant role in Swazi culture.

    Conclusion: Eswatini faces challenges related to political reform, economic diversification, and addressing social issues like poverty and health concerns. At the same time, the country’s unique cultural heritage and strategic regional partnerships present opportunities for growth and development.

    Travel Tips for Eswatini

    – Best time to visit: April to September (dry season) for optimal weather and cultural events like the Umhlanga Reed Dance.

    – Cultural etiquette: Dress modestly, remove shoes when entering traditional homesteads, and seek permission before taking photographs.

    – Safety precautions: Avoid walking alone at night, be cautious in crowded areas, and follow local advice on areas to avoid.

    – Must-see landmarks: Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary, Ngwenya Glass Village, Mantenga Cultural Village, and the Lubombo Mountains.

    – Culinary experiences: Try traditional Swazi dishes like sidvudvu (pumpkin and peanut stew), umncwango (pounded pumpkin and maize), and Swazi beef or chicken stews.

    Living in Eswatini

    – Cost of living: Eswatini has a relatively low cost of living compared to Western countries, with affordable housing and utilities.

    – Housing: Expats often live in gated communities or secure apartment complexes in urban areas like Mbabane and Manzini.

Main facts

1. Location

Eswatini is a landlocked country located in Southern Africa. It is bordered by South Africa to the north, west, and south, and by Mozambique to the east.

2. Map References

Eswatini is situated in the Southern African region.

3. Area – Comparative

Eswatini has an area of approximately 17,364 square kilometers, which is slightly smaller than the U.S. state of New Jersey.

4. Land Boundaries and Border Countries

Eswatini shares a total land boundary of 535 kilometers with the following countries:

5. Coastline

Eswatini is a landlocked country and does not have a coastline.

6. Maritime Claims

As a landlocked country, Eswatini has no maritime claims.

7. Climate

Eswatini has a varied climate due to its diverse topography. The western part of the country has a more temperate climate, while the eastern region experiences a subtropical climate with higher temperatures and humidity.

8. Terrain

Eswatini’s terrain is mostly mountainous, with several plateaus and hills. The Drakensberg Mountains, part of the Great Escarpment, run along the western border with South Africa.

9. Elevation Extremes

The highest point in Eswatini is Emlembe, at an elevation of 1,862 meters, located in the Lubombo Mountains. The lowest point is the Great Usuthu River, at an elevation of 21 meters above sea level.

10. Natural Resources

Eswatini’s natural resources include asbestos, coal, clay, cassiterite, hydropower, forests, small gold and diamond deposits, quarry stone, and talc.

11. Major Bodies of Water

The major bodies of water in Eswatini include the Great Usuthu River, the Komati River (shared with South Africa), and the Umbuluzi River (shared with South Africa and Mozambique).

12. Natural Hazards

Eswatini is prone to droughts and seasonal wildfires.

13. Geography – Notes

Eswatini is one of the smallest countries in Africa and is entirely surrounded by South Africa and Mozambique. The kingdom’s economy is heavily dependent on agriculture and the export of sugar and soft drink concentrates.

  • Forest Area (% of land area): . This is the percentage of a country’s total land area that is covered by natural or planted forests.
  • Co2 Emissions: . CO2 emissions refer to the release of carbon dioxide gas into the atmosphere, primarily from the burning of fossil fuels (coal, oil, and natural gas) for energy production, transportation, and industrial processes.
  • Agricultural Land( %). 69.5%. Agricultural land refers to the share of land area that is arable and used for cultivating crops or raising livestock.
  • Geographic Coordinates:  -26.52250331.465866.
  • Capital: The capital of Eswatini is  Mbabane
  • Major Cities:
    • Mbabane – Population: 94,874
    • Manzini – Population: 110,537
    • Big Bend – Population: 8,000
  • Population: 1,093,238
  • Area(Km2): 17364
  • Population Density( P/Km²):67. This is the number of people living per square kilometer of land area in a given region or country.
  • Calling Code:268
  • Official Language(s):Swati (or Swazi) 97%, English 3% Eswatini
  • Currency:

Main Economic Indicators

Eswatini has a small, open economy driven primarily by services, manufacturing, and agriculture. The country faces challenges such as a high poverty rate, a declining workforce due to HIV/AIDS, and high unemployment. The government has implemented policies to diversify the economy and attract foreign investment.

Inflation Rate (Consumer Prices)

2021: 3.8% (Source: World Bank)
2020: 3.9% (Source: World Bank)

Credit Ratings

Fitch: Not Rated
Moody’s: Not Rated
Standard & Poor’s: Not Rated

GDP – Composition by Sector of Origin

Agriculture: 8.9%
Industry: 43.4%
Services: 47.7% (2017 estimates)

Key Agricultural and Industrial Products

Agricultural Products: sugarcane, cotton, corn, tobacco, rice, citrus fruits, pineapples, sorghum, peanuts, cattle, poultry, goats, sheep
Industrial Products: soft drink concentrates, coal, wood pulp, sugar, cotton yarn, refrigerators, air conditioners, footwear

Labor Force

Total Labor Force: 468,000 (2017 estimate)
Ranking: Not Available

Current Account Balance

2021: -$157 million (Source: World Bank)
2020: $171 million (Source: World Bank)
Ranking: Not Available

Exports and Imports

Exports: $1.64 billion (2021 estimate)
Key Partners: South Africa, Mozambique, United States
Main Commodities: soft drink concentrates, sugar, wood pulp, cotton yarn, refrigerators, citrus, canned goods
Imports: $1.74 billion (2021 estimate)
Key Partners: South Africa, United States, China
Main Commodities: motor vehicles, machinery, transport equipment, foodstuffs, petroleum products, chemicals

Reserves of Foreign Exchange and Gold

Foreign Exchange Reserves: $761 million (December 2021)
Gold Reserves: Not Available

  • GDP (Current US$):$3,791,304,348. It represents a country’s gross domestic product measured in current US dollars. Higher values indicate a larger economy and economic output.
  • Tax Revenue (% of GDP): 28.60%. It refers to the amount of tax revenue collected by the government, expressed as a percentage of the country’s gross domestic product (GDP). Higher values indicate a higher tax burden relative to the size of the economy.
  • Total Tax Rate (% of commercial profits): . This is the sum of all taxes payable by businesses, expressed as a percentage of their commercial profits. Higher values indicate a higher tax burden on businesses.
  • Gasoline Price. . It refers to the cost of one liter or gallon of gasoline/petrol. Higher values indicate more expensive gasoline prices for consumers and businesses.
  • Minimum wage. . It refers to the lowest legally mandated hourly wage that employers must pay their workers. Higher values indicate a higher minimum level of pay for low-wage workers.
  • Unemployment Rate (%): . It represents the percentage of the labor force that is unemployed and actively seeking employment. Higher values indicate more joblessness in the economy.

Social Indicators

Noun: Swazi(s)

Adjective: Swazi

Ethnic Groups

  • African 97.6% (includes Swazi 84.3%, Zulu 9.1%, Xhosa 2.2%, other 2%)
  • European 1.9%
  • Other 0.5%

Religions

  • Zionist 35.9%
  • Protestant 23.1%
  • Roman Catholic 14.5%
  • Muslim 2.9%
  • Other 3.6%
  • None 20%

Age Structure

  • 0-14 years: 34.51%
  • 15-64 years: 60.78%
  • 65 years and over: 4.71%

Dependency Ratios

Total dependency ratio: 64.3

Youth dependency ratio: 56.8

Elderly dependency ratio: 7.5

Median Age

Total: 21.7 years

Male: 21.3 years

Female: 22.1 years

Lifestyle Indicators

  • Obesity rate: 16.5% of the adult population
  • Alcohol consumption: 5.1 liters of pure alcohol per capita per year
  • Tobacco use: 6.1% of adults smoke tobacco
  • HIV/AIDS prevalence rate: 27.3% among adults aged 15-49 years
  • Life Expectancy at Birth: . Life Expectancy at Birth refers to the estimated average number of years a newborn is expected to live based on current mortality rates. Higher values indicate better health outcomes and living conditions in a country or region.
  • Literacy Rate (% of adults): 87.5%. It refers to the percentage of the population aged 15 and above who can read and write with understanding of a short simple statement about their everyday life. Higher literacy rates indicate better educational attainment within a population.
  • Birth Rate:. Birth Rate is the total number of live births per 1,000 population in a given year. Higher birth rates indicate a larger share of the population being born each year.
  • Death Rate:11. Death Rate is the number of deaths per 1,000 population in a given year. Higher death rates indicate more people dying annually within a population.
  • Fertility Rate: 2.8. Fertility Rate is the average number of children a woman would have over her reproductive years based on current birth rates. Higher fertility rates indicate larger family sizes and population growth.
  • Internet Users (% of population): 34.7%. Internet Users (% of population) refers to the percentage of the total population in a country or region that has access to and uses the internet. Higher values indicate greater internet penetration and connectivity among the population.
  • Urban Population: . Urban Population refers to the percentage or number of people living in urban areas or cities within a country or region. Higher urban population values indicate greater urbanization and concentration of people in cities compared to rural areas.
  • Out of Pocket Health Expenditure (% of total health expenditure):11.30%. Out of Pocket Health Expenditure (% of total health expenditure) represents the portion of total health care costs that individuals pay directly out of their own pockets, rather than being covered by insurance or government programs. Higher values indicate greater personal financial burden for health care expenses.

Infrastructure and Services

Military and Security Forces

The military of Eswatini, known as the Umbutfo Eswatini Defence Force (UEDF), consists of the Ground Force and the recently established Air Force. The Ground Force serves as the main branch, consisting of infantry, artillery, and support units. The Air Force was established in 2021 with a handful of transport and training aircraft.

The Royal Eswatini Police Service maintains internal security, supported by the paramilitary His Majesty’s Correctional Services.

Military Expenditures

Military Spending as a Percentage of GDP (Last 5 Years):

  • 2021: 2.7%
  • 2020: 2.5%
  • 2019: 2.1%
  • 2018: 2.3%
  • 2017: 2.2%

Eswatini’s military spending ranked among the lower third globally in recent years.

Personnel Strengths

Total Active-Duty Military Personnel: Approximately 3,500

  • Ground Force: 3,000
  • Air Force: 500

The Royal Eswatini Police Service has an additional force of around 4,000 personnel.

Military Equipment Inventories and Acquisitions

Eswatini’s military hardware consists primarily of light weapons and aging Soviet-era equipment, including:

  • Main Battle Tanks: T-55 and T-34 (Soviet-era)
  • Armored Personnel Carriers: BTR-152 and OT-64 (Soviet-era)
  • Artillery: M101 and D-30 (Soviet-era)

The recently established Air Force operates a small fleet of transport and training aircraft, including the Cessna 172 and Diamond DA40.

Military Service Age and Obligation

Eswatini has no mandatory military service obligations. Voluntary enlistment is permitted between the ages of 18 and 25 for a service period of 2 to 5 years.

Military Deployments

Eswatini has no significant overseas military deployments at present. However, a small contingent of personnel participates in United Nations peacekeeping missions on a rotational basis.

Strategic Military Notes

Eswatini’s defense strategy focuses primarily on maintaining territorial integrity and internal security. The military plays a limited role in regional security efforts but collaborates with neighboring countries through the Southern African Development Community (SADC).

  • Armed Forces Size: . Armed Forces Size refers to the total number of active personnel serving in a country’s military forces, including the army, navy, air force, and other branches. Higher values indicate a larger military presence and personnel.
  • Physicians per Thousand: Number of doctors per 1,000 people is
  • Population: Labor Force Participation (%): . This is the percentage of the total population aged 15 and older that is economically active, meaning they are either employed or actively seeking employment. Higher values indicate a greater proportion of the working-age population engaged in the labor force.

Leave a Comment