Mbabane, Swaziland

Mbabane Fort Worth’s newest Sister City, Mbabane, Swaziland, was chosen through an innovative process. Fort Worth Sister Cities first assembled a committee which looked at the southern portions of the African continent as a whole, and then narrowed the search to a few key cities. The committee decided to send one team to Pretoria and Mbabane and another team to Buffalo City and Capetown. While in their assigned cities, the teams met with city officials, toured the land, researched local attractions and learned first-hand about the prospective cities. Once home, they created presentations from their research and presented each city before the board and membership of Fort Worth Sister Cities International. From these presentations, the board voted unanimously to recommend the city of Mbabane, Swaziland to the City of Fort Worth.

International Travel Checklist

“Traveling abroad is exciting, but it can be overwhelming too. When traveling with a Sister Cities group, you will be included in several group briefings before your departure including protocol information specific to your trip. Additionally, we have created a Travel Checklist as a resource for you to help you get the most out of your experience.”

Background Information

Mbabane is the capital of Swaziland and has an estimated population of 95,000 making it the largest city of Swaziland. It derives its name from a Chief, Mbabane Kunene, who lived in the area when British settlers arrived. It is also a commercial hub for the surrounding region, while iron and tin were mined nearby. Mbabane, and Swaziland itself, thrive on their sugar export and tourism.

Swaziland prides itself on the warmth and friendliness that it extends to all its visitors. The rural charm and ethnic culture of this small independent kingdom, is located between South Africa and Mozambique draws many travellers, especially those who come to enjoy the traditional Swazi experience and traditional events . Swaziland is also famous for its arts and crafts, and it’s impossible to leave without visiting – and most likely buying – some of the uniquely African crafts like the well-known Swazi candles and the beautiful Ngwenya glass. Swaziland is one of the few remaining monarchies left in the world, ruled by King Mswati III, the Kingdom of Swaziland is renowned for its ceremonial culture.

Mbabane Service Adventure, June 6-20, 2012. Click here to download the flyer and application form.