This small landlocked Kingdom is located within South Africa. It is ruled in a dual monarchy system comprising of the King and the Queen Mother. Unlike other parts of Africa, much of the landscape is well watered, due to the numerous rivers, streams and centuries old agricultural values and techniques. The indigenous Swazi people have always taken pride in hard work farming or herding, cleanliness, the art represented in their rich blankets, weavings and hut ornamentation. The country’s biggest draws are its rural charm, its still well-preserved traditional culture and customary friendliness.
With the huge influx of refugees from Zimbabwe, South Africa and countries to the north, much of the above traditional beauty is eroding quickly. This makes Swaziland an immediate must see for those with romantic images of a functioning pastoral tribal Africa or those who are interested in hard but rewarding volunteer work.