Small Is Beautiful: The Quirky Charms Of Swaziland

Sunday 7 February

Theatre 2
Time: 4.00pm
Title: Small Is Beautiful: The Quirky Charms Of Swaziland
Speaker: Mike Unwin
Company: Swaziland Tourism Authority

The Kingdom of Swaziland is continental Africa’s second smallest country and its last remaining absolute monarchy. Most visitors overlook this tiny, landlocked nation as they head for the better-known attractions of neighbouring South Africa. Yet Swaziland’s borders contain a wealth of delights – both natural and cultural.

The country’s position, between the eastern escarpment and the Indian Ocean flood plain, makes for a dramatic topography. From the mountainous grasslands of the western Highveld, the land passes down through the populous and well-cultivated Middleveld to the hot, dusty bush of the Lowveld. Each landscape offers its own unique scenic beauty.

The rewards for the nature lover are legion. Although the great herds of yesteryear are long gone, several excellent nature reserves protect big game such as rhinos (both white and black), elephant and giraffe. Meanwhile the hills of the highveld offer prolific flora and birdlife for the hiker, plus the thrill of having a genuine wilderness all to yourself.

Swazi society remains richly infused by tradition, most visible in such spectacular ceremonies as the Umhlanga (reed dance) and the Incwala, unrivalled across the region for their sheer scale. Yet today the country finds itself in a state of transition, reconciling the challenges of development with the sureties of the past.

For the visitor, Swaziland is peaceful, welcoming and highly accessible. It offers a rare chance to see authentic Africa on its own terms.

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