Mistakes expats make in Swaziland

Greetings fellow and future Expats and Visitors,

I did not personally make these mistakes, but these are the things that, in my experience, Swazis complain about with respect to foreigners:

1. Do not talk bad about the King. Swazis love their King and do not want to hear any disparaging remarks about him.

2. Respect their culture: The way maidens dress in traditional attire with breasts visible is part of their culture. It is not demeaning to the young ladies. The many festivals and cultural events are rich in culture. Try to understand what the meanings are. It is not our business to disapprove of someone else's traditions and culture. Read up on other practices such as not using your left hand to give someone something, holding your right elbow with your left hand when presenting something, and generally greeting everyone on sight and on the telephone when initializing a conversation.

3. Don't try to save the Swazis from themselves. (See number four) Really study issues prior to trying to save Swazis from their own culture. Some of the things westerners might see as misogyny or human rights issues may seem to them as a part of their culture. A volunteer on a shuttle from Johannesburg shocked everyone when she said she was a feminist and was coming to Swaziland to save the women from misogynistic practices like the King choosing more wives and the practice of polygamy in the country.

4. Do not ask a Swazi, "How do you enjoy living in Swaziland?" This seems like a stupid question to them because, just like where you are from, their country is the best country on earth.

Good luck!
Annette