Swazi Tribe 1

There are approximately 1.6 million Swazi people living in the areas of Swaziland and in South Africa mostly around the Johannesburg area as well as the towns in Mpumalanga province (Eastern Transvaal). The Swazi people are part of the Nguni tribe that originated from the eastern part of Central Africa in the late 15th century, their society consisting of a group of Nguni chiefdoms. In the latter part of the 18th century, a very dominant chief by the name of Ngwane managed to take control of small Nguni and Sotho people of the area. and in that way bolstered his defensive army against Chief Dingisway’s Mthethwa forces that were eventually overcome by their great rival, Ndwandwe, who killed Dingiswayo. After that Ngwane withdrew his people into the mountainous area today known as Swaziland.

Tourists, who would like to experience the well preserved genuine Swazi culture, can visit the Matsamo Cultural Village situated near the Kruger National Park, which is named after Chief Matsamo who was the first Swazi Chief to live on a permanent basis in the area. To this day the area remains under the management of the Matsamo tribal authority. This cultural village opened its doors in 2001 and won South Africa’s Imvelo Responsible Tourism Award.

The Swazi people generally have clung to their old traditions in which ceremonies play a fundamental part, especially their tribal dancing which include a traditional rain dance, a reed dance and dance of the first fruit. Visitors to the village will experience the performances of traditional dances accompanied by authentic African musical instruments. Traditional Swazi cuisine is available. It is possible to wander through the village and intermingle with the people as they go about their daily activities. Or wander through the curio shop which offers a wide range of local crafts.  There is also a restaurant with beautiful views of the area. Accommodation is available within the village in hive shaped huts though incorporating modern amenities for visitors.