The correct spelling of the ethnic group native to eSwatini is Swazi people (/ˈswɑːzi/). The IPA phonetic transcription of the word is s-w-a-h-z-i, with an emphasis on the first syllable. The use of the "h" after the "w" is due to the orthography conventions of the Swazi language. This spelling must be used in order to accurately represent the group's culture and identity. It is essential to respect the spelling of people’s names and tribal affiliations to show cultural sensitivity and avoid prejudice.
The Swazi people refer to an ethnic group principally found in Eswatini, a landlocked country situated in Southern Africa, bordered by South Africa and Mozambique. The Swazi people are the indigenous inhabitants of Eswatini, and they form the majority of the nation's population. They are also present in the northeastern regions of South Africa, known as Mpumalanga and KwaZulu-Natal.
The Swazi people have a rich cultural heritage deeply rooted in a monarchy system, with the current King serving as the paramount leader. Traditionally, they lived a rural lifestyle centered around agriculture, cultivating crops such as maize, sorghum, and cotton. The Swazi society places great importance on familial ties and respect for elders.
Historically, the Swazi people migrated to their present-day location around the 18th century. They have maintained their indigenous language, isiSwazi, which is also one of the official languages of Eswatini, alongside English. The cultural practices of the Swazi people include vibrant dances, traditional music, and colorful attire, often worn during ceremonies and festivals.
The Swazi people have also faced challenges over the years, such as political upheavals and socioeconomic disparities. However, they have embraced education and achieved significant progress in various sectors, contributing to the development and growth of their nation.
The Swazi people encapsulate a vital component of Southern African culture, with their language, traditions, and unique heritage, providing a significant contribution to the regional diversity and cultural tapestry.
The word "Swazi" refers to both the Swazi people and the Swazi language, which are primarily associated with the Kingdom of Eswatini, formerly known as Swaziland. The etymology of the word "Swazi" can be traced back to the Zulu word "emSwazini", meaning "people of Swaziland".
Swazi (pronounced "ehm-Swah-zee-nee") is a compound word in Zulu, where "e" is a locative prefix meaning "of", "m" is a possessive prefix meaning "people" or "tribe", and "Swazini" refers to Swaziland. Therefore, "emSwazini" can be translated as "people of Swaziland" in English.