Mbabane Extension History: The Transformation of Eswatini's Capital
Located in the heart of the African continent, the Kingdom of Eswatini is a small, landlocked nation surrounded by South Africa and Mozambique. The country’s capital, Mbabane, is located in the Highveld region of the country and serves as the center of government, commerce, and culture. Over the years, Mbabane has experienced rapid growth and expansion, transforming it from a small, rural town to an important urban center. Here, we explore the history of Mbabane’s transformation and its impact on the nation.
The first settlers in Mbabane were the Sotho people, who arrived in the area in the early 19th century. The town was initially known as “uMbabane”, meaning “place of the people” in the local language. It was a small, rural settlement with a population of only a few hundred people. However, the town soon began to grow as more people moved to the area.
In 1903, the British colonial administration established the Mbabane Extension, which marked the beginning of the town’s transformation. The Extension was an area of land that was annexed from the surrounding countryside and designated as the new capital of the Swazi nation. The Extension was laid out in a grid pattern, with wide, straight streets and large public squares. The town was divided into residential and commercial areas, and a number of government buildings were constructed, including the Parliament House, the Supreme Court, and the National Library.
The Extension also saw the construction of numerous public services, such as schools, hospitals, and markets. These services were essential for the development of the town and helped to attract more people to the area. As the population of Mbabane grew, so too did its economy. New businesses opened up and the town became a hub for trade and commerce.
The Mbabane Extension also saw the introduction of modern infrastructure, such as electricity and running water. This made it easier for people to live and work in the area, and it helped to attract more people to the town. By the mid-20th century, Mbabane had become the largest city in the country and the center of government and commerce.
Today, Mbabane is a bustling urban center with a population of over 100,000 people. It is a vibrant city with a rich cultural heritage and a thriving economy. The Mbabane Extension remains an important part of the city’s history and its transformation from a small, rural settlement to a major urban center has had a profound impact on the nation.