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Coordinates: 26°26′47″S 31°12′06″E / 26.44639°S 31.20167°E / -26.44639; 31.20167
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{{Infobox settlement
{{Infobox settlement
<!-- See Template:Infobox settlement for additional fields and descriptions -->
<!-- See Template:Infobox settlement for additional fields and descriptions -->
| name = Lobamba
| name = Lobamba
| native_name =
| native_name =
| native_name_lang = <!-- ISO 639-2 code e.g. "fr" for French. If more than one, use {{lang}} instead -->
| native_name_lang = <!-- ISO 639-2 code e.g. "fr" for French. If more than one, use {{lang}} instead -->
| settlement_type = City
| settlement_type = [[Capital city]]
| pushpin_map = Swaziland
| image_skyline = Parliament building of Eswatini, Lobamba.jpg
| image_caption = Eswatini parliament building in Lobamba
| pushpin_map = Eswatini#Africa
| pushpin_relief = yes
| map_alt =
| map_alt =
| map_caption =
| map_caption = Location of Lobamba in [[Eswatini]]
| coordinates = {{coord|26|25|0|S|31|10|0|E|display=inline,title}}
| coordinates = {{coord|26|26|47|S|31|12|06|E|display=inline,title}}
|subdivision_type = Country
| subdivision_type = Country
|subdivision_name = {{flag|Eswatini}}
| subdivision_name = {{flag|Eswatini}}
|subdivision_type1 = District
| subdivision_type1 = [[Regions of Eswatini|District]]
|subdivision_name1 = [[Hhohho District|Hhohho]]
| subdivision_name1 = [[Hhohho District|Hhohho]]
| established_title =
| established_title =
| established_date =
| established_date =
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| elevation_m = 694
| elevation_m = 694
| population_footnotes =
| population_footnotes =
| population_total = 11,000
| population_total = 9,900
| population_as_of = 2006
| population_as_of = 2006
| population_density_km2 = auto
| population_density_km2 = auto
| population_demonym =
| population_demonym =
| population_note =
| population_note =
| timezone1 = [[South African Standard Time|SAST]]<ref>[http://www.timezonegenius.com/detail/swaziland/lobamba ''Lobamba.''] Time Zone Genius. Retrieved April 20, 2014.</ref>
| timezone = [[South African Standard Time]]
| utc_offset1 = +2
| utc_offset = +02:00
| timezone1_DST = <!--- None in 2014 -->
| timezone_DST = Not observed
| utc_offset1_DST =
| postal_code_type =
| postal_code_type =
| postal_code = H107<ref>[http://www.geopostcodes.com/Lobamba ''Lobamba''.] GeoPostCodes. Retrieved April 20, 2014.</ref>
| postal_code = H107<ref>[http://www.geopostcodes.com/Lobamba ''Lobamba''.] GeoPostCodes. Retrieved April 20, 2014.</ref>
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| footnotes =
| footnotes =
}}
}}
'''Lobamba''' is a place in [[Eswatini]] that is located in between Eswatini's two main cities ([[Mbabane]] & [[Manzini|Manzini)]].


It falls under the [[Hhohho Region|Hhohho]] region in Eswatini, with [[Mbabane]] being its city and [[Lusushwana]] river being the nearest river. It is found between [[Ezulwini]] and [[Mahlanya]] and is opposite [[Elangeni]].
'''Lobamba''' is the traditional, spiritual, and legislative [[Capital (political)|capital]] city of [[Eswatini]], seat of the [[Parliament of Swaziland|Parliament]],<ref name=CPA>[http://www.cpahq.org/cpahq/core/parliamentInfo.aspx?Committee=SWAZILAND "The Parliament of Swaziland"]. Commonwealth Parliamentary Association. Accessed April 7, 2014.</ref> and [[Ludzidzini Royal Village|residence]] of the [[Ntombi of Swaziland|Ntombi]], the [[Ndlovukati|Queen Mother]].<ref name="EB">[http://www.britannica.com/EBchecked/topic/345388/Lobamba "Lobamba"]. Encyclopædia Britannica. Accessed April 8, 2014.</ref><ref>Ruth Cyr. ''[https://books.google.com/books?id=YlhwTte8pbkC&pg=PA485 Twentieth Century Africa]''. iUniverse; 2001. {{ISBN|978-0-595-18982-3}}. p. 485.</ref> [[Mswati III]] lives about {{convert|10|km|mi}} away at the Lozitha Palace. The King and Queen Mother participate in annual December and January [[Incwala]] ceremonies and August and September [[Umhlanga (ceremony)|Reed Dance]]es at the Royal [[Kraal]].


This place holds cultural significance in Eswatini as it features places of great significance. It serves as a [[legislative]], [[traditional]], [[Spirituality|spiritual]], [[seat of government]] of the [[Parliament of Eswatini]],<ref name="CPA">[http://www.cpahq.org/cpahq/core/parliamentInfo.aspx?Committee=SWAZILAND "The Parliament of Swaziland"] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160304120040/http://www.cpahq.org/cpahq/core/parliamentInfo.aspx?Committee=SWAZILAND |date=2016-03-04 }}. Commonwealth Parliamentary Association. Accessed April 7, 2014.</ref> and [[Ludzidzini Royal Village]], the residence of [[Ntfombi of Eswatini|Queen Ntfombi]], the [[Ndlovukati|Queen Mother]].<ref name="EB">[http://www.britannica.com/EBchecked/topic/345388/Lobamba "Lobamba"]. Encyclopædia Britannica. Accessed April 8, 2014.</ref><ref>Ruth Cyr. ''[https://books.google.com/books?id=YlhwTte8pbkC&pg=PA485 Twentieth Century Africa]''. iUniverse; 2001. {{ISBN|978-0-595-18982-3}}. p. 485.</ref>
Key attractions are the Parliament, National Museum of Eswatini, [[Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary]], and the King Sobhuza II Memorial Park. The Embo State Palace, not open to visitors, was built by the British government for the [[polygamous]] King [[Sobhuza II]], whose family included 600 children. He led the movement for Eswatini's independence from the United Kingdom and was its first prime minister.

It is about ten kilometres from [[King Mswati III]] 's palace, the [[Lozitha Palace]]. It also houses [[Somhlolo National Stadium]].

=== Key attractions are: ===

# EswatiniParliament
# National Museum of Eswatini- [[Eswatini National Trust Commission]]
# [[Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary]]
# [[King Sobhuza II Memorial Park]]
# Mandzana- hot springs


==Overview==
==Overview==
It is located in the western part of the country<ref name="Haggett p. 2477" /> in the woodland "Valley of Heaven", or [[Ezulwini Valley]].<ref name="Armstrong p. 582" /> It is {{convert|16|km|mi}} from [[Mbabane]], in the district of [[Hhohho]]<ref name="EB"/> and has a [[subtropical climate]] with a summer rainy season.<ref name="Haggett p. 2477" />
It is located in the western part of the country<ref name="Haggett p. 2477" /> in the woodland "Valley of Heaven", or [[Ezulwini Valley]].<ref name="Armstrong p. 582" /> It is {{convert|16|km|mi|0}} from [[Mbabane]], in the district of [[Hhohho]]<ref name="EB"/> and has a [[subtropical climate]] with wet summers and dry winters.<ref name="Haggett p. 2477" />
[[File:Sobhuza.jpg|thumb|[[Sobhuza II]]]]
[[File:Sobhuza.jpg|thumb|[[Sobhuza II]]]]
In 1997 its population was 3,625.<ref name="EB"/> Its population in 2006 was 11,000.<ref>Encyclopædia Britannica, Inc.. ''[https://books.google.com/books?id=QeKbAAAAQBAJ&pg=PA706 Britannica Book of the Year 2010]''. Encyclopædia Britannica, Inc.; 1 March 2010. {{ISBN|978-1-61535-366-8}}. p. 706.</ref> Across the country, 84.3% of its people are [[Swazi people|Swazi]] and 9.9% are [[Zulu people|Zulu]]. The remainder are [[Tsonga people|Tsonga]] (2.5%), [[Indian people|Indian]] (1.6%) and others (1.7%). Its official languages are [[Swazi language|Swazi]] and [[English language|English]].<ref name="Haggett p. 2477" />
In 1997 its population was 3,625.<ref name="EB"/> Its population in 2006 was 11,000.<ref>Encyclopædia Britannica, Inc.. ''[https://books.google.com/books?id=QeKbAAAAQBAJ&pg=PA706 Britannica Book of the Year 2010]''. Encyclopædia Britannica, Inc.; 1 March 2010. {{ISBN|978-1-61535-366-8}}. p. 706.</ref> Across the country, 84.3% of its people are [[Swazi people|Swazi]] and 9.9% are [[Zulu people|Zulu]]. The remainder are [[Tsonga people|Tsonga]] (2.5%), [[Indian people|Indian]] (1.6%) and others (1.7%). Its official languages are [[Swazi language|Swazi]] and [[English language|English]].<ref name="Haggett p. 2477" />


==History==
==History==
Two areas have been called Lobamba, the first now called "Old Lobamba" was established in 1750 in southern Eswatini. The subject of this article is a settlement that was created by [[Sobhuza II]] in the northwest section of the country.<ref>Laurel L. Rose. ''[https://books.google.com/books?id=ev7uqavYvGoC&pg=PA65 The Politics of Harmony: Land Dispute Strategies in Swaziland]''. Cambridge University Press; 31 January 1992. {{ISBN|978-0-521-39296-9}}. p. 65.</ref>{{#tag:ref|In the mid 18th century ancestors of [[Sobhuza I]] came to (old) Lobamba from the north.<ref>Bridget Hilton-Barber. ''[https://books.google.com/books?id=te1461s33IwC&pg=PA158 Weekends with Legends]''. New Africa Books; 2001. {{ISBN|978-0-86486-471-0}}. p. 158.</ref> About 1750 Swazi was founded in (old) Lobamba by [[House of Dlamini|Dlamini dynasty]] chief [[Ngwane III]], according to local tradition. His son, [[Ndvungunye]], died in 1815 and [[Sobhuza I]] became the king and founder of modern Swaziland, ruling from his [[Shiselweni Region|Shiselweni]] royal residence beginning in 1818. The city of (old) Lobamba was built in 1820 as headquarters for Sobhuza I, who died in 1838.<ref name=SAL>{{cite book|last=Pinchuck|first=Tony|title=The Rough Guide to South Africa, Lesotho & Swaziland|date=July 5, 2012|publisher=Penguin|isbn=9781405390453|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=NYQJTsifWK4C&pg=PT1419}}</ref><ref name="Akyeampong p. 424">Emmanuel Kwaku Akyeampong; Henry Louis Gates. ''[https://books.google.com/books?id=39JMAgAAQBAJ&pg=RA4-PA424 Dictionary of African Biography]''. Oxford University Press; 2 February 2012. {{ISBN|978-0-19-538207-5}}. p. 424.</ref>|group="nb"}}
Two areas have been called Lobamba, the first now called "Old Lobamba" was established in 1750 in southern Eswatini. The subject of this article is a settlement that was created by [[Sobhuza II]] in the northwest section of the country.<ref>Laurel L. Rose. ''[https://books.google.com/books?id=ev7uqavYvGoC&pg=PA65 The Politics of Harmony: Land Dispute Strategies in Swaziland]''. Cambridge University Press; 31 January 1992. {{ISBN|978-0-521-39296-9}}. p. 65.</ref>{{#tag:ref|In the mid 18th century ancestors of [[Sobhuza I]] came to (old) Lobamba from the north.<ref>Bridget Hilton-Barber. ''[https://books.google.com/books?id=te1461s33IwC&pg=PA158 Weekends with Legends]''. New Africa Books; 2001. {{ISBN|978-0-86486-471-0}}. p. 158.</ref> About 1750 Swazi was founded in (old) Lobamba by [[House of Dlamini|Dlamini dynasty]] chief [[Ngwane III]], according to local tradition. His son, [[Ndvungunye]], died in 1815 and [[Sobhuza I]] became the king and founder of modern Eswatini, ruling from his [[Shiselweni Region|Shiselweni]] royal residence beginning in 1818. The city of (old) Lobamba was built in 1820 as headquarters for Sobhuza I, who died in 1838.<ref name=SAL>{{cite book|last=Pinchuck|first=Tony|title=The Rough Guide to South Africa, Lesotho & Swaziland|date=July 5, 2012|publisher=Penguin|isbn=9781405390453|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=NYQJTsifWK4C&pg=PT1419}}</ref><ref name="Akyeampong p. 424">Emmanuel Kwaku Akyeampong; Henry Louis Gates. ''[https://books.google.com/books?id=39JMAgAAQBAJ&pg=RA4-PA424 Dictionary of African Biography]''. Oxford University Press; 2 February 2012. {{ISBN|978-0-19-538207-5}}. p. 424.</ref>|group="nb"}}


In 1903, following the [[Boer Wars]], the British government took control of Eswatini and it was then ruled by a [[regent]]. In 1921 King [[Sobhuza II]] became leader of Eswatini, which was still under the British government's control.<ref>Ruth Cyr. ''[https://books.google.com/books?id=YlhwTte8pbkC&pg=PA485 Twentieth Century Africa]''. iUniverse; 2001. {{ISBN|978-0-595-18982-3}}. p. 485, 488.</ref> Eswatini became independent of the British government on September 6, 1968, which was announced at a cattle [[byre]] in Lobamba by [[Makhosini Dlamini|Prince Makhosini]]. He was the country's first prime minister and the great-grandson of [[Sobhuza I]]. With its independence, Eswatini was a member in its own right of the [[Organization of African Unity]] (OAU), [[British Commonwealth]], and the [[United Nations]].<ref name="Akyeampong p. 233">Emmanuel Kwaku Akyeampong; Henry Louis Gates. ''[https://books.google.com/books?id=39JMAgAAQBAJ&pg=RA4-PA233 Dictionary of African Biography]''. Oxford University Press; 2 February 2012. {{ISBN|978-0-19-538207-5}}. p. 233–234.</ref> It was made a [[constitutional monarchy]] under Sobhuza II,<ref name="Twentieth Century Africa">Ruth Cyr. ''[https://books.google.com/books?id=YlhwTte8pbkC&pg=PA488 Twentieth Century Africa]''. iUniverse; 2001. {{ISBN|978-0-595-18982-3}}. p. 488.</ref> who lived in the royal residence, or [[kraal]], in Lobamba.<ref name="Twentieth Century Africa"/>
In 1903, following the [[Boer Wars]], the British government took control of Eswatini and it was then ruled by a [[regent]]. In 1921 King [[Sobhuza II]] became leader of Eswatini, which was still under the British government's control.<ref>Ruth Cyr. ''[https://books.google.com/books?id=YlhwTte8pbkC&pg=PA485 Twentieth Century Africa]''. iUniverse; 2001. {{ISBN|978-0-595-18982-3}}. p. 485, 488.</ref> Eswatini became independent of the British government on September 6, 1968, which was announced at a cattle [[byre]] in Lobamba by [[Makhosini Dlamini|Prince Makhosini]]. He was the country's first prime minister and the great-grandson of [[Sobhuza I]]. With its independence, Eswatini was a member in its own right of the [[Organization of African Unity]] (OAU), [[British Commonwealth]], and the [[United Nations]].<ref name="Akyeampong p. 233">Emmanuel Kwaku Akyeampong; Henry Louis Gates. ''[https://books.google.com/books?id=39JMAgAAQBAJ&pg=RA4-PA233 Dictionary of African Biography]''. Oxford University Press; 2 February 2012. {{ISBN|978-0-19-538207-5}}. p. 233–234.</ref> It was made a [[constitutional monarchy]] under Sobhuza II,<ref name="Twentieth Century Africa">Ruth Cyr. ''[https://books.google.com/books?id=YlhwTte8pbkC&pg=PA488 Twentieth Century Africa]''. iUniverse; 2001. {{ISBN|978-0-595-18982-3}}. p. 488.</ref> who lived in the royal residence, or [[kraal]], in Lobamba.<ref name="Twentieth Century Africa"/>


==Government==
==Government==
[[File:Parliament building of Swaziland, Lobamba.jpg|thumb|Parliament building of Eswatini]]
[[File:Mswati III King of Eswatini.jpg|thumb|upright|[[Mswati III]], King of Eswatini<br>April 1986–present]]
Lobamba is the legislative seat of the [[Eswatini]] government.<ref name=CPA />
[[File:Mswati III King of Swaziland.JPG|thumb|upright|[[Mswati III]], King of Eswatini<br>April 1986–present]]
Lobamba is the legislative seat of the [[Swaziland|Eswatini]] government.<ref name=CPA />


===Parliament of Eswatini===
===Parliament of Eswatini===
{{main|Parliament of Eswatini}}
{{main|Parliament of Eswatini}}
It was made a branch of the [[Commonwealth Parliamentary Association]] on January 1, 1965 and its date of independence was January 1, 1968. The constitution was signed by King [[Mswati III]] on July 26, 2005. The [[List of Kings of Swaziland|king]] appoints the [[List of heads of government of Swaziland|prime minister]] and the council. There are two chambers: the Senate and the House of Assembly.<ref name=CPA /> The parliament building is sometimes open to visitors.<ref name="Murphy p. 592" />
It was made a branch of the [[Commonwealth Parliamentary Association]] on January 1, 1965, and its date of independence was January 1, 1968. The constitution was signed by King [[Mswati III]] on July 26, 2005. The [[List of monarchs of Eswatini|king]] appoints the [[List of prime ministers of Eswatini|prime minister]] and the council. There are two chambers: the Senate and the House of Assembly.<ref name=CPA /> The parliament building is sometimes open to visitors.<ref name="Murphy p. 592" />

Lobamba also has Inkhundla- Lobamba Inkhundla where residents get services like birth certificate registration, passports, Identity cards and other national documents.


===Embo State Palace===
===Embo State Palace===
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===Royal residences===
===Royal residences===
King [[Mswati III]] lives at the Lozitha Palace, about {{convert|10|km|mi}} from the city. He visits the Royal Kraal, or Ludzidzini Royal Residence, during the [[Umhlanga (ceremony)|Umhlanga dance]] and [[Incwala]] ceremonies.<ref name="Murphy p. 592" /> The royal village includes the queen mother's Royal Kraal, dwelling clusters, and a parade ground for ceremonies.<ref name="Attractions" />
King [[Mswati III]] lives at the Lozitha Palace, about {{convert|10|km|mi|0|spell=in}} from the city. He visits the Royal Kraal, or Ludzidzini Royal Residence, during the [[Umhlanga (ceremony)|Umhlanga dance]] and [[Incwala]] ceremonies.<ref name="Murphy p. 592" /> The royal village includes the queen mother's Royal Kraal, dwelling clusters, and a parade ground for ceremonies.<ref name="Attractions" />


==Infrastructure==
==Infrastructure==


===Law enforcement===
===Law enforcement===
[[File:Caricature of William Palmer, 2nd Earl of Selborne (1859-1942).jpg|thumb|upright|[[William Palmer, 2nd Earl of Selborne|Lord Selborn]], [[List of High Commissioners of the United Kingdom to South Africa|High Commissioner for South Africa]] signed a proclamation in 1907 for what became the Eswatini Police Force.]]
[[File:Caricature of William Palmer, 2nd Earl of Selborne (1859-1942).jpg|thumb|upright|[[William Palmer, 2nd Earl of Selborne|Lord Selborne]], [[List of High Commissioners of the United Kingdom to South Africa|High Commissioner for South Africa]] signed a proclamation in 1907 for what became the Eswatini Police Force.]]
Lobamba has a police station and is served by The Royal Eswatini Police Service.<ref>[http://police.gov.sz.dedi337.nur4.host-h.net/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&catid=98%3Arsp&id=1605%3Awhere-to-find-us-lobamba-police-station&Itemid=597 ''Lobamba Police Station'']. The Royal Swaziland Police Service. Retrieved April 7, 2014.</ref> During the British colonial era [[William Palmer, 2nd Earl of Selborne|Lord Selborn]], [[List of High Commissioners of the United Kingdom to South Africa|High Commissioner for South Africa]] signed a proclamation in 1907 for what became the Eswatini Police Force. After Eswatini's independence in 1968, the force was renamed the Royal Eswatini Police Force. Its name was further changed making it a service, rather than a force.<ref>[http://police.gov.sz.dedi337.nur4.host-h.net/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=436&Itemid=597 ''Brief History.''] The Royal Swaziland Police Service. Retrieved April 20, 2014.</ref>
Lobamba has a police station and is served by The Royal Eswatini Police Service.<ref>[http://police.gov.sz.dedi337.nur4.host-h.net/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&catid=98%3Arsp&id=1605%3Awhere-to-find-us-lobamba-police-station&Itemid=597 ''Lobamba Police Station'']. The Royal Swaziland Police Service. Retrieved April 7, 2014.</ref> During the British colonial era [[William Palmer, 2nd Earl of Selborne|Lord Selborne]], [[List of High Commissioners of the United Kingdom to South Africa|High Commissioner for South Africa]] signed a proclamation in 1907 for what became the Eswatini Police Force. After Eswatini's independence in 1968, the force was renamed the Royal Eswatini Police Force. Its name was further changed making it a service, rather than a force.<ref>[http://police.gov.sz.dedi337.nur4.host-h.net/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=436&Itemid=597 ''Brief History.''] The Royal Swaziland Police Service. Retrieved April 20, 2014.</ref>


===Education===
===Education===
Education is free, but is not required. It had low literacy rates, but they are rising.<ref name="Haggett p. 2477" /> Lobamba National High School is in Lobamba.<ref>Ndzimandze, Mbongiseni (September 12, 2009). [http://www.swazilive.com/Swaziland_News/Swaziland_News_Stories.asp?News_id=495 "Lobamba National High snatches investment challenge"]. ''Weekend Observer''. Accessed April 7, 2014.</ref>
There are four schools in Lobamba, 2 primary schools and two high schools. First, there is Lomba National High School .<ref>Ndzimandze, Mbongiseni (September 12, 2009). [http://www.swazilive.com/Swaziland_News/Swaziland_News_Stories.asp?News_id=495 "Lobamba National High snatches investment challenge"]. ''Weekend Observer''. Accessed April 7, 2014.</ref> Also, is Lobamba National Primary School, St Mary's Primary School and St Mary's High School.


===Health and welfare===
===Health and welfare===
The government provides health facilities to manage [[endemic disease]] and [[malnutrition]]. Retirement, disability and survivor pensions are available through its welfare system.<ref name="Haggett p. 2477" />
The government provides health facilities to manage [[endemic disease]] and [[malnutrition]]. Retirement, disability and survivor pensions are available through its welfare system.<ref name="Haggett p. 2477" /> Lobamba has two clinics: Lobamba Clinic and St Mary's Clinic that provide health services to community members but not restricted to Lobamba residents.

There is a community centre for the Youth and a care pount for children where children come to play and eat. The availability of the police station helps reduce crime in the area making it safe for people and next to it is a fire station which brings emergency services closer to the people.


===Transportation===
===Transportation===
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===National Museum of Eswatini===
===National Museum of Eswatini===
The National Museum of Eswatini, located in Lobamba next to the [[Parliament of Swaziland|Parliament building]], was built in 1972 and expanded in 1986 and 1990.<ref name=SAL /><ref name="SNTC"/> The museum was made a non-profit institution in 1974 by the [[International Council of Museums]].<ref name="SNTC"/>
The National Museum of Eswatini, located in Lobamba next to the [[Parliament of Eswatini|Parliament building]], was built in 1972 and expanded in 1986 and 1990.<ref name=SAL /><ref name="SNTC"/> The museum was made a non-profit institution in 1974 by the [[International Council of Museums]].<ref name="SNTC"/>


The museum houses a memorial to the revered King [[Sobhuza II]]<ref name="Murphy p. 592" /> and [[Swazi people|Swazi]] and [[South Africa]]n artifacts. It has a collection of photographs that include subjects of the [[Mbabane]] and [[Manzini Region]]s and [[Scramble for Africa|British colonial]] administrators. A 16th-century head of [[Krishna]], discovered nearby, is located in the [[natural history]] wing and provides evidence of trade with the [[eastern world|east]].<ref name=SAL /><ref name="SNTC">[http://www.sntc.org.sz/cultural/museum.html "National Museum"]. Swaziland National Trust Commission. Accessed April 7, 2014.</ref> The natural history wing includes [[highveld]] and [[lowveld]] [[diorama]]s to illustrate the diverse Eswatini ecosystems and feature rarely seen nocturnal animals. Its nature-centric exhibits integrate environmental and cultural impacts.<ref name="Attractions" />
The museum houses a memorial to the revered King [[Sobhuza II]]<ref name="Murphy p. 592" /> and [[Swazi people|Swazi]] and [[South Africa]]n artifacts. It has a collection of photographs that include subjects of the [[Mbabane]] and [[Manzini Region]]s and [[Scramble for Africa|British colonial]] administrators. A 16th-century head of [[Krishna]], discovered nearby, is located in the [[natural history]] wing and provides evidence of trade with the [[eastern world|east]].<ref name=SAL /><ref name="SNTC">[http://www.sntc.org.sz/cultural/museum.html "National Museum"]. Swaziland National Trust Commission. Accessed April 7, 2014.</ref> The natural history wing includes [[highveld]] and [[lowveld]] [[diorama]]s to illustrate the diverse Eswatini ecosystems and feature rarely seen nocturnal animals. Its nature-centric exhibits integrate environmental and cultural impacts.<ref name="Attractions" />
Line 104: Line 120:
Also located near the Parliament building is the [[Somhlolo stadium]] for football and other major events.<ref name=SAL />
Also located near the Parliament building is the [[Somhlolo stadium]] for football and other major events.<ref name=SAL />


[[File:Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary 01.jpg|thumb|[[Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary]]]]
[[File:Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary in Eswatini 01.jpg|thumb|[[Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary]]]]
===Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary===
===Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary===
{{main|Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary}}
{{main|Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary}}
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===Malkern Valley===
===Malkern Valley===
Malkerns Valley is an arts and crafts center located {{convert|7|km|mi}} south of Lobamba.<ref>James Bainbridge. ''[https://books.google.com/books?id=p4pGABdauysC&pg=PA588 South Africa Lesotho and Swaziland]''. Lonely Planet; 15 September 2010. {{ISBN|978-1-74220-375-1}}. p. 588.</ref>
Malkerns Valley is an arts and crafts center located {{convert|7|km|mi|frac=2|spell=in}} south of Lobamba.<ref>James Bainbridge. ''[https://books.google.com/books?id=p4pGABdauysC&pg=PA588 South Africa Lesotho and Swaziland]''. Lonely Planet; 15 September 2010. {{ISBN|978-1-74220-375-1}}. p. 588.</ref>


==Events==
==Events==

Latest revision as of 21:11, 6 December 2024

Lobamba
Eswatini parliament building in Lobamba
Eswatini parliament building in Lobamba
Lobamba is located in Eswatini
Lobamba
Lobamba
Location of Lobamba in Eswatini
Lobamba is located in Africa
Lobamba
Lobamba
Lobamba (Africa)
Coordinates: 26°26′47″S 31°12′06″E / 26.44639°S 31.20167°E / -26.44639; 31.20167
Country Eswatini
DistrictHhohho
Elevation694 m (2,277 ft)
Population
 (2006)
 • Total
9,900
Time zoneUTC+02:00 (South African Standard Time)
 • Summer (DST)Not observed
Area code416 (country code +268)[2]
ISO 3166 codeSZ/SWZ[3]

Lobamba is a place in Eswatini that is located in between Eswatini's two main cities (Mbabane & Manzini).

It falls under the Hhohho region in Eswatini, with Mbabane being its city and Lusushwana river being the nearest river. It is found between Ezulwini and Mahlanya and is opposite Elangeni.

This place holds cultural significance in Eswatini as it features places of great significance. It serves as a legislative, traditional, spiritual, seat of government of the Parliament of Eswatini,[5] and Ludzidzini Royal Village, the residence of Queen Ntfombi, the Queen Mother.[6][7]

It is about ten kilometres from King Mswati III 's palace, the Lozitha Palace. It also houses Somhlolo National Stadium.

Key attractions are:

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  1. EswatiniParliament
  2. National Museum of Eswatini- Eswatini National Trust Commission
  3. Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary
  4. King Sobhuza II Memorial Park
  5. Mandzana- hot springs

Overview

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It is located in the western part of the country[8] in the woodland "Valley of Heaven", or Ezulwini Valley.[9] It is 16 kilometres (10 mi) from Mbabane, in the district of Hhohho[6] and has a subtropical climate with wet summers and dry winters.[8]

Sobhuza II

In 1997 its population was 3,625.[6] Its population in 2006 was 11,000.[10] Across the country, 84.3% of its people are Swazi and 9.9% are Zulu. The remainder are Tsonga (2.5%), Indian (1.6%) and others (1.7%). Its official languages are Swazi and English.[8]

History

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Two areas have been called Lobamba, the first now called "Old Lobamba" was established in 1750 in southern Eswatini. The subject of this article is a settlement that was created by Sobhuza II in the northwest section of the country.[11][nb 1]

In 1903, following the Boer Wars, the British government took control of Eswatini and it was then ruled by a regent. In 1921 King Sobhuza II became leader of Eswatini, which was still under the British government's control.[15] Eswatini became independent of the British government on September 6, 1968, which was announced at a cattle byre in Lobamba by Prince Makhosini. He was the country's first prime minister and the great-grandson of Sobhuza I. With its independence, Eswatini was a member in its own right of the Organization of African Unity (OAU), British Commonwealth, and the United Nations.[16] It was made a constitutional monarchy under Sobhuza II,[17] who lived in the royal residence, or kraal, in Lobamba.[17]

Government

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Mswati III, King of Eswatini
April 1986–present

Lobamba is the legislative seat of the Eswatini government.[5]

Parliament of Eswatini

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It was made a branch of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association on January 1, 1965, and its date of independence was January 1, 1968. The constitution was signed by King Mswati III on July 26, 2005. The king appoints the prime minister and the council. There are two chambers: the Senate and the House of Assembly.[5] The parliament building is sometimes open to visitors.[18]

Lobamba also has Inkhundla- Lobamba Inkhundla where residents get services like birth certificate registration, passports, Identity cards and other national documents.

Embo State Palace

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The royal Embo State Palace was built by the British to house the polygamous Sobhuza II and his family, including 600 children. It is not open to visitors and photographs are not allowed.[9][18]

Royal residences

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King Mswati III lives at the Lozitha Palace, about ten kilometres (6 mi) from the city. He visits the Royal Kraal, or Ludzidzini Royal Residence, during the Umhlanga dance and Incwala ceremonies.[18] The royal village includes the queen mother's Royal Kraal, dwelling clusters, and a parade ground for ceremonies.[19]

Infrastructure

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Law enforcement

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Lord Selborne, High Commissioner for South Africa signed a proclamation in 1907 for what became the Eswatini Police Force.

Lobamba has a police station and is served by The Royal Eswatini Police Service.[20] During the British colonial era Lord Selborne, High Commissioner for South Africa signed a proclamation in 1907 for what became the Eswatini Police Force. After Eswatini's independence in 1968, the force was renamed the Royal Eswatini Police Force. Its name was further changed making it a service, rather than a force.[21]

Education

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There are four schools in Lobamba, 2 primary schools and two high schools. First, there is Lomba National High School .[22] Also, is Lobamba National Primary School, St Mary's Primary School and St Mary's High School.

Health and welfare

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The government provides health facilities to manage endemic disease and malnutrition. Retirement, disability and survivor pensions are available through its welfare system.[8] Lobamba has two clinics: Lobamba Clinic and St Mary's Clinic that provide health services to community members but not restricted to Lobamba residents.

There is a community centre for the Youth and a care pount for children where children come to play and eat. The availability of the police station helps reduce crime in the area making it safe for people and next to it is a fire station which brings emergency services closer to the people.

Transportation

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Many of the roads in Eswatini are unsurfaced, but there are good roads that connect principal towns,[8] including the MR3 highway and MR103 road.[9] There are small local airstrips and a railroad that operates between Eswatini and Mozambique.[8] The Matsapha Airport is 23 kilometres (14 mi) from Lobamba. The next closest domestic and international airport is Maputo International Airport in Mozambique, which is 216 kilometres (134 mi) away.[23]

One of the tour operators in Eswatini is Swazi Trails, which has tours of the Lobamba royal village, nature reserves, game parks, and craft centres. Nabo Bashoa runs minibus tours.[24]

Culture and attractions

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African Life. Some of the Sons of the Late Chief Bokweni Mamba.
National Dancing at Lobamba (1951)

National Museum of Eswatini

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The National Museum of Eswatini, located in Lobamba next to the Parliament building, was built in 1972 and expanded in 1986 and 1990.[13][25] The museum was made a non-profit institution in 1974 by the International Council of Museums.[25]

The museum houses a memorial to the revered King Sobhuza II[18] and Swazi and South African artifacts. It has a collection of photographs that include subjects of the Mbabane and Manzini Regions and British colonial administrators. A 16th-century head of Krishna, discovered nearby, is located in the natural history wing and provides evidence of trade with the east.[13][25] The natural history wing includes highveld and lowveld dioramas to illustrate the diverse Eswatini ecosystems and feature rarely seen nocturnal animals. Its nature-centric exhibits integrate environmental and cultural impacts.[19]

A recreation of a Swazi homestead is located outside the museum.[13]

Somhlolo stadium

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Also located near the Parliament building is the Somhlolo stadium for football and other major events.[13]

Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary

Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary

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Just outside Lobamba is the Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary that has horseback and hiking trails, guided mountain-bike tours, rustic trail camps and camping in caves. Throughout the park are opportunities to observe game,[13] including antelope, giraffe, zebras, and many types of birds.[26]

King Sobhuza II Memorial Park

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A memorial park was established in the memory of King Sobhuza II, who was the leader of the country's independence in 1968. The king's life is told through an exhibit of photographs. Three of the king's vintage cars are in the museum and his mausoleum is within the park.[19]

Malkern Valley

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Malkerns Valley is an arts and crafts center located seven kilometres (4+12 mi) south of Lobamba.[27]

Events

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Ceremonies

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Lobamba is famous for two ceremonies that are held there: the Reed Dance,[6] celebrated in August and September in honour of the Queen Mother, and the Incwala,[6][28] in December and January in honour of the King. These ceremonies include dancing, singing, and celebrations with traditional attire.[29][30]

See also

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Notes

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  1. ^ In the mid 18th century ancestors of Sobhuza I came to (old) Lobamba from the north.[12] About 1750 Swazi was founded in (old) Lobamba by Dlamini dynasty chief Ngwane III, according to local tradition. His son, Ndvungunye, died in 1815 and Sobhuza I became the king and founder of modern Eswatini, ruling from his Shiselweni royal residence beginning in 1818. The city of (old) Lobamba was built in 1820 as headquarters for Sobhuza I, who died in 1838.[13][14]

References

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  1. ^ Elevation of Lobamba,Swaziland Elevation Map, Topo, Contour. Floodmap.net. Retrieved April 20, 2014.
  2. ^ Lobamba. Archived 2014-04-23 at the Wayback Machine Phone Area Code Dialing. Retrieved April 20, 2014.
  3. ^ Lobamba. PostCodesDB. Retrieved April 20, 2014.
  4. ^ Lobamba. GeoPostCodes. Retrieved April 20, 2014.
  5. ^ a b c "The Parliament of Swaziland" Archived 2016-03-04 at the Wayback Machine. Commonwealth Parliamentary Association. Accessed April 7, 2014.
  6. ^ a b c d e "Lobamba". Encyclopædia Britannica. Accessed April 8, 2014.
  7. ^ Ruth Cyr. Twentieth Century Africa. iUniverse; 2001. ISBN 978-0-595-18982-3. p. 485.
  8. ^ a b c d e f Peter Haggett. Encyclopedia of World Geography. Marshall Cavendish; 1 July 2001. ISBN 978-0-7614-7289-6. p. 2477.
  9. ^ a b c Kate Armstrong. South Africa, Lesotho & Swaziland. Lonely Planet; 2006. ISBN 978-1-74059-970-2. p. 582.
  10. ^ Encyclopædia Britannica, Inc.. Britannica Book of the Year 2010. Encyclopædia Britannica, Inc.; 1 March 2010. ISBN 978-1-61535-366-8. p. 706.
  11. ^ Laurel L. Rose. The Politics of Harmony: Land Dispute Strategies in Swaziland. Cambridge University Press; 31 January 1992. ISBN 978-0-521-39296-9. p. 65.
  12. ^ Bridget Hilton-Barber. Weekends with Legends. New Africa Books; 2001. ISBN 978-0-86486-471-0. p. 158.
  13. ^ a b c d e f Pinchuck, Tony (July 5, 2012). The Rough Guide to South Africa, Lesotho & Swaziland. Penguin. ISBN 9781405390453.
  14. ^ Emmanuel Kwaku Akyeampong; Henry Louis Gates. Dictionary of African Biography. Oxford University Press; 2 February 2012. ISBN 978-0-19-538207-5. p. 424.
  15. ^ Ruth Cyr. Twentieth Century Africa. iUniverse; 2001. ISBN 978-0-595-18982-3. p. 485, 488.
  16. ^ Emmanuel Kwaku Akyeampong; Henry Louis Gates. Dictionary of African Biography. Oxford University Press; 2 February 2012. ISBN 978-0-19-538207-5. p. 233–234.
  17. ^ a b Ruth Cyr. Twentieth Century Africa. iUniverse; 2001. ISBN 978-0-595-18982-3. p. 488.
  18. ^ a b c d Alan Murphy; Kate Armstrong; James Bainbridge. Lonely Planet Southern Africa. Lonely Planet; 2010. ISBN 978-1-74059-545-2. p. 592.
  19. ^ a b c Lobamba: Attractions. The Kingdom of Swaziland. Retrieved April 20, 2014.
  20. ^ Lobamba Police Station. The Royal Swaziland Police Service. Retrieved April 7, 2014.
  21. ^ Brief History. The Royal Swaziland Police Service. Retrieved April 20, 2014.
  22. ^ Ndzimandze, Mbongiseni (September 12, 2009). "Lobamba National High snatches investment challenge". Weekend Observer. Accessed April 7, 2014.
  23. ^ Lobamba, Swaziland. Travel Math. Retrieved April 21, 2014.
  24. ^ South Africa. Rough Guides; 2002. ISBN 978-1-85828-853-6. Ncwala and Umhlanga ceremonies. p. 801.
  25. ^ a b c "National Museum". Swaziland National Trust Commission. Accessed April 7, 2014.
  26. ^ Alan Murphy; Kate Armstrong; James Bainbridge. Lonely Planet Southern Africa. Lonely Planet; 2010. ISBN 978-1-74059-545-2. p. 584.
  27. ^ James Bainbridge. South Africa Lesotho and Swaziland. Lonely Planet; 15 September 2010. ISBN 978-1-74220-375-1. p. 588.
  28. ^ James Bainbridge. South Africa Lesotho and Swaziland. Lonely Planet; 15 September 2010. ISBN 978-1-74220-375-1. p. 613.
  29. ^ "Ncwala and Umhlanga ceremonies." In South Africa. Rough Guides; 2002. ISBN 978-1-85828-853-6. p. 805.
  30. ^ Incwala The Kingdom of Swaziland. Retrieved April 20, 2014.

Further reading

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