The country, formerly known as Swaziland, gained independence on Sept. 6, 1968, under King Sobhuza II. The anniversary is observed as Somhlolo Day and is a public holiday.
National celebrations traditionally include ceremonies at Somhlolo National Stadium in Lobamba, featuring traditional music, cultural dances and people wearing colorful traditional attire.
The independence anniversary is one of Eswatini’s major national occasions, combining official ceremonies with celebrations of the kingdom’s cultural heritage and national identity.
King Sobhuza II played a central role in the country’s transition to independence and became monarch of the newly independent Swaziland.
In 2018, the country officially changed its name from the Kingdom of Swaziland to the Kingdom of Eswatini, with the move presented by the government as a reaffirmation of the country’s heritage and identity.
Eswatini remains one of Africa’s remaining monarchies, with the monarchy playing a central role in the country’s political and cultural life.
The Sept. 6 anniversary continues to serve as a reminder of the end of British rule and Eswatini’s emergence as an independent African state.
