Africa-Press – Eswatini. On September 6, 1968, a new chapter was written in Africa’s history. On that day, a small but proud kingdom, then called Swaziland, stood tall as the last British territory in Africa (apart from Rhodesia) to gain independence.
At the heart of the celebrations was King Sobhuza II, a leader who skillfully guided his people from colonial rule into self-determination, laying the foundation for the modern nation we now call Eswatini.
The Road to Freedom
For 65 years, Swaziland had been a British protectorate. During this period, the monarchy was preserved, and traditional structures of governance remained central to Swazi life.
The winds of change swept through Africa in the 1960s, and King Sobhuza II understood the importance of positioning Swaziland for independence. To achieve this, he established the Imbokodvo National Movement (INM), which represented traditional Swazi values and aspirations. In the 1967 pre-independence elections, the INM won every single seat, proving the overwhelming support of the people.
With this victory, negotiations with Britain accelerated. By 1966, talks on a new constitution were underway, and the following year Swaziland became a protected state, a transitional phase before full sovereignty. Finally, on September 6, 1968, independence was proclaimed, and the instruments of statehood were formally handed over to King Sobhuza II.
A Day of Celebration
The independence ceremonies were marked with great joy and cultural pride. King Sobhuza II, then 69 years old, arrived accompanied by his many wives, showcasing the kingdom’s deep-rooted traditions. The moment Britain’s Commonwealth Secretary, George Thompson, handed over the documents of independence, the world witnessed the birth of a free African nation.
Swaziland immediately applied for membership in the British Commonwealth of Nations, ensuring that it maintained international ties while proudly asserting its sovereignty.
Building a Swazi Identity
Independence was not just a political milestone, it was the rebirth of national identity. King Sobhuza II emphasized that Eswatini must preserve its unity, traditions, and peace, even as it engaged with the modern world.
In 1973, to protect the cultural fabric of the nation, King Sobhuza II repealed the colonial constitution and introduced the Tinkhundla system. This uniquely Swazi form of governance placed power in the hands of local communities, ensuring that traditional voices remained central to the kingdom’s development.
Why Independence Day Matters Today
For Emaswati, September 6 is more than a public holiday. It is a reminder of the courage and foresight of our forefathers. It is a celebration of:
Freedom: The ability to govern ourselves without foreign control.
Unity: The strength of a people who stood together behind their King.
Identity: A nation proud of its culture, traditions, and way of life.
Independence Day is also a call to action, reminding every Liswati that preserving peace, building prosperity, and carrying forward our culture is a responsibility we all share.
A Legacy to Cherish
Today, Eswatini continues to stand tall as a beacon of tradition, resilience, and unity in Africa. From the valleys of Hhohho to the rolling plains of Lubombo, the spirit of independence is alive in the hearts of the people.
As we celebrate this historic day each year, let us remember the words that marked the dawn of our freedom, a hope for prosperity and peace. This legacy, carried from 1968 to today, remains the guiding star of the Kingdom of Eswatini.
Independence is not just about breaking free from colonial rule, it is about embracing who we are, as Emaswati, and carrying our heritage proudly into the future.
Source: Eswatini Positive News – News Website
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