Mbabane

Mbabane is the largest city in Eswatini, a country in southern Africa that was previously called Swaziland. Along with Lobamba, it is one of the two capitals of the country, serving as the executive capital. This means that many important government offices are located here.

The city has a population of about 94,874 people, according to a count in 2010. Mbabane is situated near the Mbabane River and the Polinjane River, which flow through the beautiful Mdzimba Mountains. It is found in the Hhohho Region, where it also serves as the regional capital. The city sits at an average height of 1,243 meters above sea level and lies along the MR3 road.

History

The town of Mbabane grew after the nation's administrative centre moved from Bremersdorp, now called Manzini, in January 1902. It was named after a local chief, Mbabane Kunene, who lived there when British settlers arrived.

Mbabane was started in 1887 by Mickey Wells where a road crossed the Mbabane river. Great Britain made it the capital of the new Protectorate of Swaziland in 1902. At first, it had only a few shops, churches, and schools. By the 1930s, Mbabane had electricity, running water, a telephone connection, and a hospital.

After World War II, new trade schools, a railway, and investments helped the city grow. Today, Mbabane is a busy place with hotels and places for visitors to enjoy.

Geography

View of Mbabane

Mbabane is found in the Hhohho district, where it is also the capital. It sits near the Mbabane River and the Polinjane River in the Mdzimba Mountains. The city sits high up, about 1,243 metres above sea level. Some of its areas include Mbangweni, Sidvwashini, Kent Rock, and Sandla.

Climate

Because Mbabane is at a higher altitude, it has a mild and comfortable climate. Snow is very rare, having only happened three times since 1900. The city experiences only about four frost days each year. Temperatures stay mild, averaging around 11 °C (52 °F) in July and 22 °C (72 °F) in January. Most of the rain falls during the summer months.

Economy

Portable market hut in Mbabane, 1979

Mbabane is close to the border with South Africa at Ngwenya-Oshoek. The main language is siSwati, but many people also speak English. The city and the country rely on tourism and exports of sugar. Mbabane is an important center for business and trade in the area. Nearby, people used to mine tin and iron.

The financial services in Mbabane help the city's economy grow. These services include banks, investments, and insurance. As these services grow, Mbabane becomes an important financial center for the region, helping Eswatini's economy overall.

Culture

The Indingilizi Gallery in Mbabane opened in 1982. It shows many kinds of Swazi art, such as sculptures, paintings, batiks, mohair, ethnic jewellery, and pottery.

Places of worship

People in Mbabane believe in many different things. Most follow Christianity, and you can find places like the Roman Catholic Diocese of Manzini, the Swaziland Reformed Church, and the Zion Christian Church. There are also places where Muslims gather for worship.

Healthcare

Mbabane has groups that help keep people healthy. One such group is called Young Heroes, which started in 2006.

Education

Mbabane is home to Waterford-Kamhlaba United World College of Southern Africa. The city also has one of the three campuses of the University of Eswatini. Additionally, Limkokwing University of Creative Technology, a private international university, is located near the border between South Africa and Eswatini.

Notable people

Mbabane is home to many interesting people from different fields. Some of these include Mark Easter, a former rugby player, and Richard E. Grant, a well-known actor. Others, like Lindiwe Sisulu, have worked in politics, while artists such as Lucas Mlambo contribute to the world of painting. The city has also seen athletes like Nobuhle Dlamini and cricketers like Neville Markham, showing its diverse community of accomplishments.