Eswatini flag

Eswatini

Kingdom of Eswatini

Capital

Mbabane

Region

Africa

Population

1,235,549

Area (km²)

17,364

💡Quick Summary

Eswatini, a small landlocked kingdom in Southern Africa with an area of 17,364 km², is home to about 1.2 million people and boasts a rich cultural heritage centered around its absolute monarchy. The capital, Mbabane, serves as the administrative hub, while the country is known for its stunning landscapes, including mountains and game reserves that attract eco-tourism. With a GDP figure unavailable in this data, Eswatini's economy relies on agriculture, manufacturing, and mining, though it faces challenges like high HIV rates and poverty.

Key Insights

Significant Forest Cover Maintained

Nearly 30% of Eswatini's land area is covered by forests (29.14%). This high percentage of forest cover is vital for biodiversity and climate mitigation, indicating successful land management or favorable geography, especially in contrast to many other developing nations facing rapid deforestation.

Low Urbanization Despite Small Land Area

Eswatini is a small country (17,364 sq km) but exhibits a low urbanization rate of only 25.8%. This suggests that the majority of the population remains dispersed in rural areas, potentially complicating the delivery of centralized services and infrastructure, despite the high electrification rate.

Life Expectancy and Infant Mortality Contrast

Despite a relatively low life expectancy of 64.12 years, suggesting ongoing health challenges, Eswatini's infant mortality rate (43.5 per 1,000 live births) is lower than many regional averages. This indicates focused interventions in neonatal or early childhood care, even as overall adult lifespan remains constrained.

Strong Rural Electrification Progress

Eswatini has achieved a high level of access to electricity, reaching 86.4% of the population. This figure is notably high for a lower-middle-income country in Southern Africa and suggests successful infrastructure investment, which is crucial for development and quality of life, especially given the low urban population (25.8%).

Economic Indicators
Latest economic data from World Bank

GDP (Current US$)

$4.62B

Year: 2023

GDP Per Capita

$3,755.52

GDP Growth (%)

3.53%

Inflation (%)

N/A%

Unemployment (%)

35.09%

Debt to GDP (%)

N/A%

Source: World Bank • Last updated: 12/24/2025

Historical Trends & Data Visualizations

GDP Growth Rate
Annual percentage change in GDP over time
2014201520162017201820192020202120222023-3.00%0.00%3.00%6.00%9.00%
  • GDP Growth (%)
Population Growth
Total population over time
20142015201620172018201920202021202220230350,000700,0001,050,0001,400,000
  • Population
Life Expectancy
Average life expectancy at birth (years)
20142015201620172018201920202021202220230.0years20.0years40.0years60.0years80.0years
  • Life Expectancy (years)
Renewable Energy Consumption
Percentage of total energy from renewable sources
2014201520162017201820192020202120220.0%20.0%40.0%60.0%80.0%
  • Renewable Energy (%)
GDP Per Capita
Economic output per person (current US$)
2014201520162017201820192020202120222023$0$1,000$2,000$3,000$4,000
  • GDP Per Capita ($)

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