Somhlolo Day in Eswatini
Somhlolo Day is a public holiday that’s observed annually on the 6th of September in Eswatini. This holiday commemorates the day when the country gained independence from Great Britain in 1968. This holiday is also known as Swaziland Independence Day or Sobhuza Day.
Eswatini (Public holiday) Since this is a public holiday, it’s a day off for the general population, and businesses, schools, and non-essential government agencies are closed for the duration of the day. If this day happens to fall on a weekend day, then it’s moved to the following Monday so that everyone can have an opportunity to have a day off of work.
The History Of Somhlolo Day In Eswatini
The 1881 Pretoria Convention guaranteed Swaziland’s independence, but it also meant that the country lost a considerable portion of its own territory. After the 1903 Anglo-Boer War, the British would then end up controlling Swaziland as a protectorate.
As time went by, unrest began to rise in the country and this resulted in the independence movement gaining traction over the course of the next few decades. In 1964, Swaziland would then adopt its first constitution. This would be followed by the 1967 Constitution that introduced self-government to the country once independence had been achieved.
On September 6, 1968, Swaziland was granted formal independence in the Commonwealth of Great Britain. Soon after, this date was made a public holiday and named after King Sobhuza I — a king who ruled from 1805 to 1839. He is considered to be the founder of Swaziland.
Observing Somhlolo Day In Eswatini
To begin this holiday, there are official ceremonies that take place in Eswatini’s capital, Lobamba, at Somhlolo Stadium. There are also political speeches delivered by politicians, traditional dancing and singing, and parades throughout Eswatini. It’s also a day off for the general population so they can visit loved ones and enjoy meals such as Emasi Emabele, Tinkhobe, and Emahewu. This is a holiday on which people enjoy their independence and take pride in their country.
Eswatini (Public holiday) 
