Manzini, Swaziland
Region: Manzini
Geographic Coordinates: -26.483300, 31.366700
Temperature Range: 20.0°C to 35.0°C (68°F to 95°F)
Climate: Seasonal.
Population: 110508
Language: Siswati
Manzini is a bustling city located in the central region of Swaziland, A small landlocked country in Southern Africa. It serves as an important commercial hub for the country and is surrounded by beautiful hills and mountains that provide stunning views of the surrounding landscapes. The main attraction of Manzini is its vibrant markets, Including the Manzini Market, Which is one of the largest open-air markets in Southern Africa. Here visitors can find a wide range of goods such as textiles, Pottery, Wood carvings, Jewelry and much more. Another popular attraction in Manzini is King Sobhuza II Memorial Park.
This park features beautiful gardens with fountains and statues that depict Swazi culture and history. For those interested in learning about Swazi culture and traditions, Mantenga Cultural Village offers an authentic experience where visitors can witness traditional dances performed by local people dressed in colorful costumes. Visitors can also sample local cuisine such as umncweba (dried meat) or sip on some traditional beer while enjoying live music performances. Nature lovers will be delighted to know that there are several nature reserves near Manzini where they can go hiking or bird watching.
Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary offers guided walks through its pristine wilderness areas where visitors can spot animals such as zebras, Wildebeest or even crocodiles! Another popular reserve nearby is Malolotja Nature Reserve which boasts stunning waterfalls and breathtaking views across mountain ranges. if you’re looking for some relaxation after exploring all that Manzini has to offer, There are several spas and wellness centers in the city where you can indulge in a massage or get pampered with beauty treatments. The Swazi Spa at the Royal Swazi Sun Hotel offers a range of treatments to help you unwind and rejuvenate.
Manzini has something for everyone – whether you’re interested in culture, History or nature – this vibrant city has it all. With its friendly people, Beautiful landscapes and bustling markets, Manzini is definitely worth a visit if you’re planning a trip to Southern Africa.
- The King Sobhuza II Memorial Park
- Manzini Market
- Swazi Candles Craft Centre
- Mantenga Cultural Village
- Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary
- The Ngwenya Glass Factory
- Malolotja Nature Reserve
- Hlane Royal National Park
- Maguga Dam and Game Reserve
- Sibebe Rock
- Manufacturing: The city is home to several manufacturing companies that produce textiles, clothing, furniture and other products.
- Agriculture: Manzini is located in a fertile agricultural region and produces crops such as sugarcane, maize, citrus fruits and vegetables.
- Retail: The city has many shopping centers and retail outlets that sell a wide range of products.
- Services: Manzini has a thriving service sector that includes banking, insurance healthcare education and tourism.
- Mining: The city is located near several mines that extract minerals such as coal and iron ore.
- Transport: Manzini is an important transportation hub for the country with good road connections to neighboring countries such as South Africa and Mozambique.
- Construction: There are several construction companies operating in the city that build residential homes commercial buildings infrastructure projects like roads or bridges.
- Establishment of Manzini as a town in 1902.
- The railway line connecting Manzini to South Africa was completed in 1936.
- The establishment of the Manzini Textile Mills in 1963, which became one of the largest employers in the country.
- The formation of the Swaziland Federation of Trade Unions (SFTU) in Manzini in 1972.
- The establishment of the University of Swaziland’s Faculty of Agriculture and Consumer Sciences campus in Manzini in 1980.
- Notable people associated with Manzini include:
- King Sobhuza II, who had a royal residence near Manzini
- Makhosetive Dlamini III, current King Mswati III was born and raised in the city
- Sibusiso Dlamini, former Prime Minister and businessman who established several companies including Tibiyo Taka Ngwane – a major investment company owned by the Swazi Royal Family.
- The National Museum of Swaziland, located in Lobamba, showcases the history, culture, and traditions of Swaziland.
- The Mantenga Cultural Village is a living museum that provides visitors with an insight into the traditional lifestyle of the Swazi people.
- The King Sobhuza II Memorial Park is dedicated to the late King Sobhuza II who led Swaziland to independence from British rule.
- The Ngwenya Glass Factory produces beautiful handmade glassware and offers tours for visitors to witness how it’s made.
- The Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary is home to various wildlife species such as zebras, giraffes, hippos, and crocodiles.
- The Manzini Market is a bustling market that allows visitors to experience local life in Manzini while purchasing handmade crafts, clothing and fresh produce.
- House on Fire is a unique venue for live music concerts featuring international artists as well as local talent with stunning architecture that blends art with nature.
- Gone Rural boMake (GRb) empowers women through craft production using natural materials such as sisal fiber which you can visit their showroom showcasing their products.
- The Bhunu Mall offers various shops from clothing stores, restaurants, banks, cinema etc making it a one-stop shopping mall.
- The Riverstone Mall features various shops ranging from supermarkets, clothing stores, restaurants etc making it another great shopping destination.
- Umhlanga Reed Dance: This is a traditional event that takes place in August or September each year. Young, unmarried women gather reeds and present them to the queen mother at the royal residence.
- Incwala Festival: This festival is held in December or January and marks the beginning of a new year. It involves a series of rituals and ceremonies, including the slaughtering of cattle.
- Bushfire Festival: An annual music and arts festival that takes place in May or June each year, featuring local and international artists.
- Manzini Trade Fair: A large commercial event held annually in August, showcasing Swazi products and services.
- King Sobhuza II Memorial Lecture Series: An annual lecture series held in July to commemorate King Sobhuza II, who played an important role in Swaziland’s independence movement.
- Marula Festival: A celebration of the marula fruit that takes place during February or March each year with cultural dances, music performances, feasting on traditional foods as well as drinking marula beer made from fermented fruits.
- Royal Eswatini Golf Open Championship Tournament – The tournament attracts golfers from around Southern Africa for three days every November at Royal Swazi Sun Country Club
- Manzini Arts & Crafts Market- Held every Saturday morning at Manzini’s central bus rank where local artisans sell handmade crafts such as woven baskets and pottery items among others.
Traditional Swazi Dishes:
- Sishwala: A traditional porridge made from maize meal and served with different types of stews.
- Emasi: A sour milk that is often used as a condiment for other dishes.
- Umncweba: Dried meat that is similar to beef jerky.
- Tingalandlozi: A dish made from beans, pumpkin leaves, and peanut butter.
- Sidvudvu: Steamed pumpkin leaves that are usually served as a side dish.
Popular Restaurants in Manzini, Swaziland:
- The George Hotel Restaurant: This restaurant serves a variety of international and local dishes and has a great atmosphere for dining out.
- Nkonyeni Lodge & Golf Estate Restaurant: This restaurant offers fine dining experiences with stunning views of the golf course and surrounding areas.
- The Gables Shopping Centre Food Court: This food court features several fast-food options for those on-the-go or looking for quick bites to eat.
- House on Fire Restaurant & Grill Bar: This restaurant serves delicious grilled meats and seafood along with live music performances on certain nights of the week.
- Mugg & Bean Restaurant at Riverstone Mall: This chain restaurant offers breakfast, lunch, dinner, coffee drinks, and baked goods in a cozy atmosphere perfect for casual dining or meetings with friends or colleagues.
- King Sobhuza II Memorial Park is a beautiful and expansive park that features picnic areas, walking paths, and a playground.
- Manzini Nature Reserve is a protected area that offers hiking trails, birdwatching opportunities, and stunning scenic views.
- Mavuso Trade and Exhibition Centre is an excellent events venue that hosts concerts, festivals, and other entertainment options.
- Mantenga Cultural Village is an immersive cultural center where visitors can experience traditional Swazi dance, music, and crafts.
- Happy Valley Casino and Resort boasts a casino complex with slot machines, table games as well as restaurants and bars for guests to enjoy.
- The George Hotel is a historic hotel with elegant surroundings offering fine dining options to its patrons.
- Riverstone Mall offers various stores selling clothing items electronics groceries among others making it an ideal shopping destination for locals or tourists alike.
- Manzini Golf Course provides golf enthusiasts with the perfect opportunity to indulge in their favorite sport amidst picturesque surroundings.
