Swaziland Independent

Press, Volume CVIII, Issue 31781, 11 September 1968, Page 14

Swaziland Independent

(N.Z.P. A.-Reuter—Copyright) MBABANE, Sept. 8. Britain has severed its last remaining link with black Africa, having given full independence to the kingdom of Swaziland (Ngawane) on Friday. British rule, which lasted 65 years, ended officially

when the Commonwealth Secretary (Mr Thomson) handed over the instruments of independence to King Sobhuza II in a colourful ceremony at the national stadium a few miles from the capital, Mbabane. Mr Thomson read a message from the Queen welcoming Swaziland to the Commonwealth.

Watched by 50,000 of his countrymen, many in traditional dress, King Sobhuza replied that Swaziland would strive to maintain “with dignity and honour” its friendly ties with Britain. King Sobhuza, aged 69, who has ruled since 1921, has yet to nominate a Queen. A polygamist, the king took his fiftieth bride in 1933, and no official records have been kept of how many times he has married since.

Rich mineral deposits—including iron ore and asbestos —and a fertile soil make Swaziland economically sound.

South Africa, eager to extend its influence in black Africa, already has a big stake in Swaziland—and the amount of private South African investment is expected to increase frory now on.

Appreciation.—The North Canterbury Agricultural Advisory Committee decided on Monday to send a letter of appreciation to Mr R. C. Stuart, who has given up the position of executive director of the Agricultural Production Council to take up a position with the Dairy Board.