National Museum
The Museum has an essential role in preserving past traditions and culture for future generations. In 1974 the International Council of Museums (ICOM) defined the museum as a "non-profit making institution in the service of society and of its development and open to the public" (ICOM 1974). The objectives of the Museum are:
- to collect all natural and man-made objects that reflect both natural and cultural heritage of the Swazi and Southern African peoples;
- to document all specimens and objects collected;
- to conserve and preserve using the best means possible all items in the collection;
- to exhibit for public information, materials in its collection;
- to serve as an informal education forum for school groups, refugee camps and adult education centres.
The Museum was built in 1972. Two small rooms housed the exhibition area. In 1986 a storage room, workshop, photography dark room and a temporary exhibition area was constructed. This area completes the ethnography section. In 1990, Government approved and funded the construction of the showroom and natural history wing. The showroom houses three royal cars used by King Sobhuza II.