Eswatini

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Music, Entertainment, Media, and Religion in Eswatini: A Comprehensive Overview

Introduction

Eswatini, formerly known as Swaziland until 2018, is a small, landlocked country located in Southern Africa. Known for its rich cultural heritage and strong monarchy, Eswatini has a unique blend of traditional practices and modern influences. The nation has maintained its cultural identity, with music, entertainment, media, and religion playing significant roles in shaping its social fabric. Despite facing political challenges and a relatively small population, Eswatini’s cultural expressions are vibrant and diverse, reflecting both its history and contemporary changes. This article explores the role of music, entertainment, media, and religion in Eswatini, offering an insight into the heart of this Southern African kingdom.

Music in Eswatini

Music in Eswatini is an essential part of the nation’s culture, encompassing a wide range of genres that reflect both traditional Swazi heritage and contemporary influences. Music is often used for ceremonial purposes, social occasions, and political expression.

Traditional Music

1. Swazi Heritage and Rhythms – Traditional music in Eswatini is deeply rooted in the customs of the Swazi people, the country’s largest ethnic group. Traditional songs are often used during important cultural events such as weddings, harvest festivals, and royal celebrations. The Lutsango (a traditional Swazi dance), and other group dances, are accompanied by drumming and chanting. The rhythms often include a call-and-response structure, allowing the community to participate actively.
2. Instruments – Traditional Swazi music incorporates a variety of instruments. The drums are central to performances, with the ingcaca drum (a large, wooden drum) providing deep, resonating beats. Other instruments like the likhuba (a flute-like instrument), lilonga (string instruments), and rattles are also commonly used. Music is often accompanied by powerful dances, some of which involve fast-paced movements and high-energy performances, particularly by women.
3. Royal Music – As a monarchy, Eswatini places significant importance on royal traditions. The Ngwenya Dance and the Umhlanga (Reed Dance), which takes place annually, are major cultural performances with music at the heart of the events. These performances are not only artistic expressions but also symbols of the country’s respect for royalty and traditional leadership.

Contemporary Music

1. Genres and Fusion – While traditional music continues to play a central role, Eswatini also has a burgeoning contemporary music scene. Afrobeat, hip-hop, reggae, rap, and gospel music are popular among the younger generation. Artists blend traditional rhythms with modern instruments to create unique sounds. Gospel music enjoys a large following in Eswatini, with choirs and church services often featuring performances that combine contemporary arrangements with local melodies.
2. Notable Artists – Eswatini has produced several musicians who have gained both national and international recognition. Bholoja, a singer-songwriter known for his deep, soulful music, is one of Eswatini’s most popular artists. His music often deals with themes of love, unity, and social issues. Simphiwe Dlamini, known for his work in gospel music, has also gained wide acclaim in Eswatini and beyond. The Swazi boy music group is another popular ensemble, fusing elements of hip-hop with traditional music.
3. Music Festivals – Eswatini hosts several music festivals throughout the year, celebrating both local and international artists. The MTN BUSHFIRE Festival is one of the most prominent, attracting thousands of visitors each year. It is an eclectic celebration of music, arts, and culture, where artists from across Africa and the world perform in front of an audience that celebrates diversity.

Entertainment in Eswatini

Entertainment in Eswatini is a blend of traditional and modern practices. While many Swazis enjoy activities rooted in their culture, contemporary forms of entertainment such as cinema, television, and sports have also become prominent in the country.

Cinema and Film Industry

1. Local Film Production – The film industry in Eswatini is still developing but has produced several notable films and short documentaries in recent years. Many of these productions highlight issues related to Swazi culture, identity, and social issues. Films like “The Red Earth” have garnered attention for their depiction of life in Eswatini and the broader African experience.
2. Film Festivals – Eswatini participates in regional film festivals, and while the country doesn’t yet have a large-scale international film festival, it is becoming a place where filmmakers can showcase their work. The Eswatini International Film Festival is an example of a local platform where filmmakers from across the continent can share their creations.
3. Traditional Performances and Theater – Theater in Eswatini is also an important form of entertainment. Traditional storytelling, particularly the use of proverbs and folktales, is a popular medium for passing down cultural knowledge. Swazi theater productions often feature dramatic performances, traditional dances, and music that reinforce the country’s cultural heritage.

Sports and Recreation

1. Football (Soccer) – Football is the most popular sport in Eswatini. The Eswatini national football team, known as the Sihlangu (the Lion), competes in regional tournaments such as the COSAFA Cup and the African Cup of Nations. Football is widely followed across the country, and local clubs like Royal Leopard and Mbabane Swallows also have large fan bases.
2. Other Sports – Along with football, other sports such as netball, basketball, rugby, and cricket have growing followings in Eswatini. The government and private sectors are increasingly investing in sports infrastructure to provide better opportunities for young athletes.
3. Traditional Sports and Games – Swazi people continue to enjoy traditional sports like wrestling and racing, which are often part of cultural festivals. These activities are also used to strengthen community bonds and celebrate national heritage.

Media in Eswatini

The media landscape in Eswatini is heavily influenced by the government, with the monarchy playing a central role in regulating media freedom. While the country has a mix of public and private media, the political environment presents challenges for independent journalism.

Print Media

1. Newspapers and Magazines – Eswatini has a small but active print media sector. Newspapers such as Times of Eswatini and Swazi Observer provide news and information, with a strong emphasis on government and royal affairs. Independent journalism is limited, as critical reporting on the government and monarchy is often discouraged.
2. Censorship and Regulation – The press in Eswatini is tightly controlled, with the government setting limits on what can be published. Journalists have faced censorship and harassment, particularly when reporting on political issues or criticism of the monarchy. There is also limited access to information on sensitive topics such as human rights and political reform.

Television and Radio

1. State-Controlled Media – The government runs the primary television station, ESWATINI TV, which airs a mix of local programming, news, and international shows. There is also Eswatini Broadcasting and Information Services (EBIS), which is the main radio broadcaster in the country. Both platforms predominantly serve as government mouthpieces, providing coverage that is in line with state policies.
2. Private Media – While there are a few privately-owned radio stations, such as Tigi FM and SBIS, these are also subject to government oversight. The content on private radio stations generally avoids topics that are critical of the monarchy or the government. The lack of independent media outlets is a significant limitation for free expression and the public’s access to diverse viewpoints.

Internet and Social Media

1. Internet Access – The internet penetration rate in Eswatini is growing, particularly in urban areas like Mbabane and Manzini, but it remains limited in rural parts of the country. The cost of internet access can be prohibitive for many citizens, and the government occasionally blocks access to certain websites or social media platforms during times of political unrest.
2. Social Media – Social media platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, and WhatsApp are widely used in Eswatini, particularly by the youth. These platforms serve as important spaces for social interaction, as well as for discussing national issues and providing alternative viewpoints. However, the government has been known to monitor online activities, and individuals have faced consequences for expressing dissent online.

Religion in Eswatini

Religion plays an essential role in the life of many Swazis, and the country is predominantly Christian. However, traditional beliefs and practices also persist in certain communities, creating a unique blend of religious influences.

Christianity

1. Roman Catholicism and Protestantism – Christianity was introduced to Eswatini during the colonial period and is the dominant religion in the country. A majority of Swazis identify as Christians, with Roman Catholicism and Protestantism being the two largest denominations. Many Swazis practice Christianity through church services, community gatherings, and religious festivals such as Christmas and Easter.
2. Evangelical Christianity – Over the past few decades, Evangelical Christianity and Pentecostal movements have gained popularity in Eswatini. These groups emphasize personal religious experiences and are known for their vibrant worship styles, including music and dance.

Traditional African Religion

1. Indigenous Beliefs – Despite the dominance of Christianity, many Swazis still maintain indigenous beliefs that focus on ancestral worship and spiritual practices. Traditional healers, called izangoma, are consulted for guidance and healing, and rituals often take place at sacred sites or during important life events.
2. Religious Tolerance – Eswatini is home to a degree of religious tolerance, with both Christians and practitioners of traditional African religions living in relative harmony. In rural areas, the blending of Christianity with traditional beliefs is common, creating a syncretic religious environment.

Conclusion

Eswatini is a country where music, entertainment, media, and religion are deeply intertwined with the cultural identity and social fabric of its people. While the country faces challenges, including limited media freedom and political constraints, the Swazi people continue to express themselves creatively through music, sports, and the arts. Religion plays a significant role in daily life, with Christianity being the dominant faith, alongside the persistence of traditional African spiritual practices. Despite its small size, Eswatini’s rich cultural heritage and the vibrancy of its music and entertainment scene make it an important part of Southern Africa’s diverse cultural landscape.