Lobamba
Lobamba | |
|---|---|
 | |
| Country |  Swaziland |
| District | Hhohho |
| Population (2003) | |
| • Total | 5,800 |
Lobamba is the traditional and legislative capital city of Swaziland, seat of the Parliament,[1] and residence of the Queen Mother.[2] It is located in the west of the country, in the Ezulwini Valley,[2] 16 km from Mbabane, in the district of Hhohho. In 1997 its population was 3,625.[2] Its present population is 5,800.[citation needed]
The Embo State Palace, the Royal Kraal, National Museum of Swaziland, Swazi National Museum, Parliament of Swaziland and a museum dedicated to Sobhuza II of Swaziland lie in the town, while the Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary[2] and Matsapha Airport lie nearby.
History
The city was built for Sobhuza II of Swaziland in 1830.[3]
Infrastructure
Law enforcement
Lobamba has a police station and is served by The Royal Swaziland Police Service.[4]
Education
Lobamba National High School is in Lobamba.[5]
Culture
National Museum of Swaziland
The National Museum of Swaziland is located in Lobamba.[6] It was constructed in 1972 and received two expansions, in 1986 and 1990 (respectively).[6] It was declared a non-profit institution in 1974 by the International Council of Museums.[6] The museum collects, "...all natural and man-made objects that reflect both natural and cultural heritage of the Swazi and Southern African peoples;"[6]
Ceremonies
Lobamba is famous for two ceremonies that are held there: the Reed Dance,[2] celebrated in August and September in honour of the Queen Mother, and the Incwala,[2] in December and January in honour of the King. These ceremonies include dancing, singing, and celebrations with traditional attire.
See also
- Swaziland National Trust Commission - operates the National Museum of Swaziland
References
- ^ "The Parliament of Swaziland". Commonwealth Parliamentary Association. Accessed April 7, 2014.
- ^ a b c d e f "Lobamba". Encyclopædia Britannica. Accessed April 8, 2014.
- ^ Pinchuck, Tony (July 5, 2012). The Rough Guide to South Africa, Lesotho & Swaziland. Penguin. ISBN 9781405390453.
- ^ "Lobamba Police Station". Police.gov.sz. Accessed April 7, 2014.
- ^ Ndzimandze, Mbongiseni (September 12, 2009). "Lobamba National High snatches investment challenge". Weekend Observer. Accessed April 7, 2014.
- ^ a b c d "National Museum". Swaziland National Trust Commission. Accessed April 7, 2014.
- O'Cuneen, Pamela (June 1, 2013). "Party time in Lobamba". The Australian. Accessed April 7, 2014.
- Dlamini, Welcome (June 27, 2013). "Majahodvwa takes potshot at colleague". Times of Swaziland. Accessed April 7, 2014.
External links
- "Geography of Swaziland", swazidirectory.co.sz
- Lobamba Travel Guide. Virtual Tourist.