Malkerns: The Cultural Heart of Eswatini

• HelloSawubona
  [Sawu-boh-nah]
• GoodbyeHamba kahle
  [Ham-bah kah-leh]
• YesYebo
  [Yeh-boh]
• NoCha
  [Chah]
• Please/You're welcomeNgiyacela
  [Ngee-ya-ceh-lah]
• Thank youNgiyabonga
  [Ngee-ya-bohn-gah]
• Excuse me/SorryUxolo
  [Oo-choh-loh]
• How are you?Unjani?
  [Oon-jah-nee]
• Fine. And you?Ngiyaphila. Wena?
  [Ngee-ya-pee-lah. Weh-nah]
• Do you speak English?Ukhuluma isiNgisi?
  [Oo-koo-loo-mah iss-ee-ngi-see]
• I don't understandAngifuni
  [Ah-ngi-foo-nee]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseNgicela ukubona imenyu, Ngiyacela
  [Ngee-ceh-lah oo-koo-boh-nah ee-men-yoo, Ngee-ya-ceh-lah]
• I don't eat meatAngiyi kudla inkomo
  [Ah-ngi-yee koo-dlah een-koh-moh]
• Cheers!Ongakhale
  [Ohn-gah-kah-leh]
• I would like to pay, pleaseNgicela ukufaka, Ngiyacela
  [Ngee-ceh-lah oo-koo-fah-kah, Ngee-ya-ceh-lah]

• Help!Usizo!
  [Oo-see-zoh]
• Go away!Hamba!
  [Ham-bah]
• Call the Police!Vula amaphoyisa!
  [Voo-lah ah-mah-poh-yee-sah]
• Call a doctor!Vula umdokotela!
  [Voo-lah oom-doh-koh-teh-lah]
• I'm lostNgishoda
  [Ngee-shoh-dah]
• I'm illNgizwa
  [Ngee-zwah]

• I'd like to buy...Ngicela ukuthenga...
  [Ngee-ceh-lah oo-koo-teh-ngah]
• I'm just lookingNgicela ukubuka kuphela
  [Ngee-ceh-lah oo-koo-boo-kah koo-peh-lah]
• How much is it?Kuyini lokhu?
  [Koo-yee-nee loh-koo]
• That's too expensiveLokhu kungakhihlani
  [Loh-koo koo-nga-khee-lah-nee]
• Can you lower the price?Ungasusa imali?
  [Oo-nga-soo-sah ee-mah-lee]

• What time is it?Ngubani usuku lwesikhathi?
  [Ngoo-bah-nee oo-soo-koo lwe-see-kah-tee]
• It's one o'clockKuyisikhombisa esisodwa
  [Koo-yee-see-khohm-bee-sah eh-see-sohd-wah]
• Half past (10)Kwesikhathi sangasese (10)
  [Kwe-see-kah-tee sah-nga-seh-seh (10)]
• MorningEmini
  [Eh-mee-nee]
• AfternoonNtambama
  [Ntahm-bah-mah]
• EveningSiswati
  [See-swah-tee]
• YesterdayNtfo
  [Ntfoh]
• TodayNamuhla
  [Nah-moo-hlah]
• TomorrowKusasa
  [Koo-sah-sah]
• 1Kunye
  [Koo-nyeh]
• 2Kubili
  [Koo-bee-lee]
• 3Kuthathu
  [Koo-tah-thoo]
• 4Kune
  [Koo-neh]
• 5Kuhlanu
  [Koo-hlah-noo]
• 6Kusihlanu
  [Koo-see-hlah-noo]
• 7Kusisibhozo
  [Koo-see-see-boh-zoh]
• 8Kusisombili
  [Koo-see-som-bee-lee]
• 9Kusitfupha
  [Koo-see-tfoo-pah]
• 10Kusipha
  [Koo-see-pah]

• Where's a/the...?Kuphi...
  [Koo-pee]
• What's the address?Leli bhalo kuyini?
  [Leh-lee bah-loh koo-yee-nee]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Ungangibonisa (emaphini)?
  [Oo-ngah-ngi-boh-nee-sah (eh-mah-pee-nee)]
• When's the next (bus)?Kuphi isithutha esilandelayo?
  [Koo-pee ee-see-too-thah eh-see-lahn-deh-yoh]
• A ticket (to ....)Ithikithi (ku....)
  [Ee-tee-kee-thee (koo)]

Malkerns, located in the lush Ezulwini Valley of Eswatini, was founded in the early 20th century. The area was named after its first European settler, James Malkern, who established a farm in the region. Over time, Malkerns evolved from a small agricultural settlement into a vibrant community known for its fertile lands and scenic beauty.

Malkerns has long been recognized for its agricultural potential. The fertile soil and favorable climate made it an ideal location for farming. The establishment of commercial farms in the mid-20th century, particularly those focusing on sugarcane and pineapple cultivation, significantly contributed to the region's economic growth. The presence of the Malkerns Research Station further advanced agricultural practices through research and innovation.

Malkerns is culturally significant within Eswatini due to its role in promoting and preserving Swazi traditions. The annual Bushfire Festival, held at the House on Fire venue, has become a major cultural event, attracting local and international artists and visitors. This festival celebrates Swazi music, arts, and culture, fostering a sense of community and cultural pride among attendees.

In recent decades, Malkerns has experienced modernization while retaining its rural charm. The area has seen the development of infrastructure, including improved roads and utilities, enhancing the quality of life for residents. Additionally, tourism has flourished, with attractions such as the Malandela's Center and various craft markets drawing visitors eager to experience the local culture and natural beauty.

Malkerns is also known for its commitment to environmental conservation. The Malkerns Valley Conservation Area was established to protect the region's diverse flora and fauna. Community-led initiatives focus on sustainable farming practices and the preservation of natural resources, ensuring that Malkerns remains a green and ecologically balanced region for future generations.

Malkerns is located in the Manzini Region of Eswatini. The nearest international airport is King Mswati III International Airport, approximately 50 kilometers away. From the airport, you can take a taxi or arrange for a shuttle service to Malkerns. Alternatively, you can drive yourself if you rent a car at the airport. The journey typically takes around 45 minutes by road.

Malkerns is a relatively small town, and many of its attractions are accessible by walking or cycling. For longer distances, local taxis are available and reasonably priced. There are also minibus taxis that connect Malkerns with nearby towns and cities. Renting a car can be a convenient option for exploring the surrounding areas at your own pace.

The official currency in Eswatini is the Swazi Lilangeni (SZL), which is pegged to the South African Rand (ZAR). Both currencies are used interchangeably. Credit cards are accepted in some hotels, restaurants, and shops, but it is advisable to carry cash, especially in smaller establishments and rural areas. ATMs are available in Malkerns.

Malkerns is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, like any travel destination, it is advisable to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places. While Malkerns does not have specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, it is always best to stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings.

In case of emergency, dial 999 for immediate assistance. The local police station and medical facilities are available in Malkerns. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, there are pharmacies in the town where you can purchase over-the-counter medications.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Avoid wearing revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Always cover your head when entering churches and traditional homesteads. Public Transport: Do be respectful and give up your seat to elderly passengers. Don’t eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake and a warm smile. It is customary to greet everyone when you enter a room. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and accept food offerings graciously. Don’t refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.

To experience Malkerns like a local, visit the Malkerns Market where you can buy fresh produce and traditional Swazi crafts. Engage with locals, who are often friendly and willing to share stories about their culture and traditions. Don’t miss visiting the House on Fire, a unique cultural venue that hosts music and arts festivals. For a unique experience, take a tour of the local sugarcane fields and learn about the region's agricultural heritage.