Mhlume: The Heartbeat of Eswatini's Sugar Industry

• HelloSawubona
  [sah-woo-boh-nah]
• GoodbyeHamba kahle
  [hahm-bah kah-hleh]
• YesYebo
  [yeh-boh]
• NoCha
  [chah]
• Please/You're welcomeNgiyacela
  [in-ghee-yah-ceh-lah]
• Thank youNgiyabonga
  [in-ghee-yah-bohn-gah]
• Excuse me/SorryUxolo
  [oo-saw-loh]
• How are you?Unjani?
  [oon-jah-nee]
• Fine. And you?Ngiyaphila. Wena?
  [in-ghee-yah-pee-lah. weh-nah]
• Do you speak English?Ukhuluma isiNgisi?
  [oo-khoo-loo-mah ee-see-nghee-see]
• I don't understandAnginawazi
  [ahng-ee-nah-wah-zee]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseNgicela ukubona imenyu
  [in-gee-ceh-lah oo-koo-boh-nah ee-meh-nyoo]
• I don't eat meatAngiphuzi inyama
  [ahng-ee-poo-zee ee-nyah-mah]
• Cheers!Ooza!
  [oh-zah]
• I would like to pay, pleaseNgicela ukulipha
  [in-gee-ceh-lah oo-koo-lee-pah]

• Help!Usizo!
  [oo-see-zoh]
• Go away!Hamba khona!
  [hahm-bah koh-nah]
• Call the Police!Vula ipolisi!
  [voo-lah ee-poh-lee-see]
• Call a doctor!Vula udokotela!
  [voo-lah oo-doh-koh-teh-lah]
• I'm lostNgisile
  [in-gee-see-leh]
• I'm illNgisengile
  [in-gee-sehn-gee-leh]

• I'd like to buy...Ngicela ukuthenga...
  [in-gee-ceh-lah oo-koo-teh-ngah]
• I'm just lookingNgicabanga kuphela
  [in-gee-chah-bah-ngah koo-peh-lah]
• How much is it?Kuyaphi?
  [koo-yah-pee]
• That's too expensiveKuyakhulu kakhulu
  [koo-yah-khoo-loo kah-khoo-loo]
• Can you lower the price?Ngikhulumele inkontileka?
  [in-gee-khoo-loo-meh-leh in-koh-nee-ti-leh-kah]

• What time is it?Ngubani lesikhathi?
  [in-goo-bah-nee leh-see-khah-tee]
• It's one o'clockKuyashintsha
  [koo-yah-shint-shah]
• Half past (10)Ngemuva (10)
  [in-geh-moo-vah (10)]
• MorningEkuseni
  [eh-koo-seh-nee]
• AfternoonNtambama
  [in-tahm-bah-mah]
• EveningEbusuku
  [eh-boo-soo-koo]
• YesterdayNgesikhatsi
  [in-geh-see-khah-tsee]
• TodayNamuhla
  [nah-moo-khlah]
• TomorrowKusasa
  [koo-sah-sah]
• 1Kunye
  [koo-nyeh]
• 2Kubili
  [koo-bee-lee]
• 3Kutsatfu
  [koo-tsaht-foo]
• 4Kune
  [koo-neh]
• 5Kutsi
  [koo-tsee]
• 6Kubhona
  [koo-bhoh-nah]
• 7Kutsandza
  [koo-tsan-dzah]
• 8Kukhulu
  [koo-khoo-loo]
• 9Kugcina
  [koo-gchee-nah]
• 10Kulandzela
  [koo-lahn-dzeh-lah]

• Where's a/the...?Kufanele ilapho...?
  [koo-fah-neh-leh ee-lah-poh]
• What's the address?Kuyini indawo yemali?
  [koo-yee-nee een-dah-woh yeh-mah-lee]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Ungangibonisi (emephu)?
  [oon-gah-ngi-boh-nee-see eh-meh-poo]
• When's the next (bus)?Kuyini libus lelandzela?
  [koo-yee-nee lee-boos leh-lahn-dzeh-lah]
• A ticket (to ....)Itikiti (ku ....)
  [ee-tee-kee-tee koo]

Mhlume, a small town in the northeastern part of Eswatini, has its roots deeply embedded in the agricultural and industrial development of the region. Historically, the area was sparsely populated, with local Swazi people practicing subsistence farming and cattle herding. The fertile soil and favorable climate eventually attracted more settlers, laying the groundwork for future development.

The turning point for Mhlume came in the early 1950s when the colonial government and private investors recognized the region's potential for sugarcane cultivation. In 1955, the Mhlume Sugar Company was established, transforming the town into a bustling industrial hub. This development not only provided employment opportunities but also attracted a diverse workforce from different parts of Eswatini and neighboring countries.

Following Eswatini's independence in 1968, Mhlume continued to prosper, largely due to the expansion of the sugar industry. The town saw significant infrastructure developments, including improved roads, housing, and healthcare facilities. The sugar mill in Mhlume became one of the largest employers in the country, contributing substantially to the national economy.

The influx of workers from various regions and countries brought a rich tapestry of cultures to Mhlume. The town is a melting pot of traditions, languages, and customs, with a harmonious blend of Swazi, Zulu, and Tsonga influences. Cultural festivals and community gatherings are common, celebrating the town's diverse heritage and fostering a sense of unity among its residents.

Despite its economic success, Mhlume has faced several challenges, including environmental concerns related to large-scale sugarcane farming. Issues such as water usage, soil degradation, and pollution have prompted both local and national efforts to implement sustainable agricultural practices. Additionally, the town has worked to address social issues like housing shortages and the need for improved educational facilities.

Today, Mhlume stands as a testament to the resilience and adaptability of its people. The town has embraced modernization while retaining its cultural roots. Advances in technology and infrastructure have improved the quality of life for its residents. The sugar industry continues to be a cornerstone of Mhlume's economy, but there is also a growing emphasis on diversifying into other sectors, such as tourism and small-scale manufacturing.

Mhlume is located in the northeastern part of Eswatini. The nearest international airport is King Mswati III International Airport, which is approximately 70 kilometers away. From the airport, you can take a taxi or rent a car to reach Mhlume. Alternatively, you can use shuttle services that operate between the airport and major towns in Eswatini, including Mhlume. The journey typically takes around 1 to 1.5 hours by road.

Mhlume is a small town, and many places can be reached on foot. For longer distances, local taxis are available and are a convenient option. There are also minibus taxis, known locally as 'kombis,' which are a common mode of transportation for locals. If you prefer more flexibility, renting a car is a good option, and it allows you to explore the surrounding regions at your own pace.

The official currency in Eswatini is the Swazi Lilangeni (SZL), which is pegged to the South African Rand (ZAR). Credit cards are accepted in most hotels, restaurants, and larger shops in Mhlume, but it is advisable to carry some cash, especially for small purchases and in rural areas. ATMs are available in the town, but it is always a good idea to withdraw sufficient cash when you have the opportunity.

Mhlume is generally a safe town for tourists, but like any destination, it is important to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists in Mhlume, but staying vigilant and aware of your surroundings is always recommended.

In case of an emergency, dial 999 for police assistance or medical emergencies. Mhlume has a local police station and a medical clinic for immediate assistance. It is strongly recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, there are local pharmacies where you can purchase over-the-counter medication.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, particularly when visiting religious sites and rural areas. Avoid wearing overly revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. When visiting religious sites, dress conservatively and behave respectfully. Public Transport: Do be courteous to fellow passengers and give up your seat to elderly individuals. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake and a warm smile. Using 'Sawubona' (hello) is appreciated. Eating & Drinking: Do try local foods and accept food offerings graciously. Don't refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.

To experience Mhlume like a local, visit the local markets where you can buy fresh produce and traditional Swazi crafts. Engage with locals, as they are often friendly and eager to share stories about their culture and history. Don't miss visiting the nearby sugar plantations, which are an integral part of the local economy. For a unique experience, participate in a traditional Swazi dance or cultural event if you have the opportunity.