Swaziland

 

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Swaziland is a small developing nation located in southern Africa.

Business in Swaziland plays an essential role through the creation of wealth and the creation of employment. It is important that business creates a strong awareness of its role and the positive contribution it makes to the economy. Junior Achievement of Swaziland, founded in 1999, helps to promote the role of business, while fostering the development of the entrepreneurial spirit among the youth of Swaziland.
Old Swazi traditions are carefully guarded and colorful ceremonies frequently take place to mark special occasions. The two main rituals are the Umhlanga or reed dance, and the Incwala, or first fruits ceremony. The Umhlanga, which takes place during August or September, involves unmarried maidens who, dressed in colorful beaded skirts and trimmings, travel to the royal kraal, or village, to honor the Queen Mother and perform traditional dances. On the way, the gather reeds which are used to make screens around the kraal and it is from this custom that the ceremony derives its name.