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Who are the people?

The majority of Swaziland’s people make their living through agriculture. Sugarcane, cotton, maize, rice, and pineapples are just some of the crops grown in the country’s fertile soil. Many of these farmers have only small plots of land and struggle to grow sufficient food for their families. They rarely have anything left to sell for income that can supply necessary items such as clothing and education for their children.

Proper health care is unattainable for many families, who simply cannot afford to pay for medicines or treatment. In some communities, health care facilities are not even available. World Vision is working with the poorest of families to ensure their children receive the care they desperately need for good health.

Though many of Swaziland’s children are in need of improved educational opportunities, the country does boast a high literacy rate for Africa. The official languages are Swazi and English.

The people of Swaziland enjoy freedom of religion. Fewer countries have been more saturated with the gospel, yet young people still struggle with old traditions. Child sponsorship offers boys and girls the opportunity to learn about the love of God.

What is it like to live there?

Swaziland is a small country surrounded by South Africa and Mozambique. A bit smaller than the state of New Jersey, it has a generally mild climate.


 
Country Statistics 
Population1.0 million
Land Mass6,641 sq. miles
Life Expectancy33 years
Infant Mortality Rate110 / 1,000
Literacy Rate80%
SCHOOL Enrollment77%
Access to Safe Water62%
Average Annual Income (GNI per capita)US$2,280
 
 
The government of Swaziland is not democratic. King Mswati III has ruled the country since 1986. Under his rule, political parties are banned, and he appoints the prime minister and a portion of Parliament. It is within his power to veto any law passed by the legislature.

Agriculture is at the heart of Swaziland’s economy, and farming is the way of life for most families in our sponsorship communities. World Vision is working alongside these families and teaching them agricultural techniques that help increase their harvests so they can better provide for their children.

Only 52 percent of Swaziland’s people have access to clean water and adequate sanitation. This means many children are at risk of waterborne and other disease, some of which can be deadly.

Through sponsorship, World Vision is helping improve sanitation practices and develop clean water programs that will protect children from such health risks.

How You Can Pray for Your Sponsored Child
  • Pray that churches and families will respond to God's calling to care for orphans and widows in their distress, especially those affected by the HIV/AIDS pandemic.
  • Pray that your sponsored child might be open to hear and receive the Gospel of Jesus Christ and respond to God’s love and grace.
  • Ask God to guide your sponsored child as he or she learns, grows, and moves toward a future full of hope and possibilities.
  • Pray for God to protect the health of your sponsored child and his or her family.
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