Birthday of King Sobhuza II in Eswatini (Swaziland) Date in the current year: July 22, 2024

Sobhuza was born on July 22, 1899 to King Ngwane V. His father died four months later, and Sobhuza ascended to the throne. His grandmother, Labotsibeni Mdluli, served as regent until 1921.

The direct reign of King Sobhuza II lasted for 61 years. During this period, he presided over the independence of Swaziland from the United Kingdom. Initially, Swaziland was a constitutional monarchy, but in 1972, Sobhuza dissolved the parliament and repealed the constitution, becoming an absolute monarch.

In 1981, Sobhuza celebrated his Diamond Jubilee. At this time, he had significantly strengthened the role of the monarch. The economy of Swaziland prospered under his rule, he also managed social change for his country.

Sobhuza died on August 21, 1982. He ruled Swaziland for 82 years and 254 days, which makes him the longest-reigning monarch of all time. Sobhuza was deeply respected by his people, and his birthday is still celebrated as a public holiday, just like the birthday of the reigning monarch, King Mswati III.