Mbabane

Mbabane (/(əm)bɑˈbɑn(i)/, Swazi: ÉMbábáne), with an estimated population of 94,874 (2010), is the capital and largest city in Swaziland. It is located on the Mbabane River and its tributary the Polinjane River in the Mdzimba Mountains. It is located in the district of Hhohho, of which it is also the capital. The average elevation of the city is 1243 meters. The population (estimated) in 1987 was 30,000. It lies on the MR3 road.

History

The town grew after the nation's administrative centre moved from Bremersdorp (now called Manzini) in 1902. It derives its name from a Chief, Mbabane Kunene, who lived in the area when British settlers arrived.

Economy

Mbabane's closest border crossing to South Africa is Ngwenya-Oshoek, and though siSwati is the primary language, English is widespread. Mbabane, and Swaziland itself, depend on tourism and sugar exports. It is also a commercial hub for the surrounding region, while tin and iron were mined nearby. The city has two sites for light industries.