The small African country of Swaziland does not stand out with anything remarkable. This is a state typical by the standards of Africa, poor and not having any influence on world politics and the economy. Yes, and tourists here — rare guests, because the tourist infrastructure here is completely undeveloped.
Interesting facts about Swaziland
- The country is ruled by a king, whose power is absolute and not contested.
- In terms of HIV infection rates, Swaziland ranks first in the world — Every fourth person here is a carrier of a terrible infection.
- Swaziland — the only absolute monarchy on the African continent. Although in other parts of the world a similar type of government also exists, for example, in Brunei (interesting facts about Brunei).
- Every fifth inhabitant of Swaziland is not literate.
- Life expectancy in this country — one of the lowest in the world.
- Three-quarters of all working people in Swaziland are employed in agriculture.
- The king of this country has several dozen wives.
- Slightly less than half of Swazis — unemployed.
- Most Swazis speak Swati, although English is also the official language here.
- About 70% of the population of Swaziland lives far below the poverty line.
- Despite its modest size, the relief of Swaziland is very diverse — there are tropical forests, and savannahs, and rivers, and mountains.
- Unlike most other African countries, most of Swaziland is quite suitable for agriculture.
- In the country, only about twenty hospitals.
- Education here is free, but many children start working early and therefore do not study.
- Nearly half of all Swazi residents — adolescents under the age of 15.
- Only 2% of the population is over the age of 65.
- Three-quarters of the country’s population lives in villages and towns.
- Swaziland has its own army, but it has never taken part in any military conflicts outside the territory of Swaziland itself.