Swaziland will be officially be renamed the Kingdom of eSwatini, which translates as ‘land of the Swazis’ in the Swazi language.
Unlike many African countries winning independence from European colonizers, Swaziland chose not to change its name back to one in the country’s own language, maintaining instead the name imposed by the British for half a century.
Speaking at 50th-anniversary independence celebrations, King Mswati III said: “I would like to announce that Swaziland will now revert to its original name.
“African countries – on getting independence – reverted to their ancient names before they were colonized, so from now on the country will officially be known as the Kingdom of eSwatini.”
The King has referred to his nation as eSwatini during speeches and official events in recent years.
The official name change likely means the constitution will be formally rewritten, while public institutions will also be given new titles.
Swaziland Ditches Colonial-Era Name, Renames Itself ‘eSwatini’
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