Gateway to Eswatini: Tshaneni Border Post

• HelloSawubona
  [sah-wu-boh-nah]
• GoodbyeHamba kahle
  [ham-bah kah-leh]
• YesYebo
  [ye-boh]
• NoCha
  [chah]
• Please/You're welcomeNgiyacela
  [in-gi-ya-ceh-lah]
• Thank youNgiyabonga
  [in-gi-ya-bong-gah]
• Excuse me/SorryUxolo
  [oo-sho-loh]
• How are you?Unjani?
  [oon-ya-nee]
• Fine. And you?Ngiyaphila. Wena?
  [in-gi-ya-pee-lah. way-nah]
• Do you speak English?Ukhuluma isiNgisi?
  [oo-koo-loo-mah is-een-gi-see]
• I don't understandAngazi
  [ang-gah-zee]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseNgicela ukubona iminikelo, ngiyacela
  [in-gi-ceh-lah u-koo-boh-nah ee-mee-nee-keh-loh, in-gi-ya-ceh-lah]
• I don't eat meatAngiyi kudla inyama
  [ang-gi-yee koo-dlah ee-nyah-mah]
• Cheers!Oele!
  [oh-leh]
• I would like to pay, pleaseNgicela ukudlala, ngiyacela
  [in-gi-ceh-lah oo-koo-dlah-lah, in-gi-ya-ceh-lah]

• Help!Usizo!
  [oo-see-zoh]
• Go away!Hamba!
  [ham-bah]
• Call the Police!Biza amaphoyisa!
  [bee-zah ah-mah-poh-yee-sah]
• Call a doctor!Biza umndeni!
  [bee-zah oom-n-deh-nee]
• I'm lostNgikhohlwe
  [in-gi-kho-shl-weh]
• I'm illNgisemuhle
  [in-gi-seh-moo-leh]

• I'd like to buy...Ngicela ukuthenga...
  [in-gi-ceh-lah oo-koo-ten-gah]
• I'm just lookingNgicela ukubuka kuphela
  [in-gi-ceh-lah oo-koo-boo-kah koo-peh-lah]
• How much is it?Kuyatholakala kahle?
  [koo-yah-tho-la-kah-lah kah-leh]
• That's too expensiveLokhu kungakabi kahle
  [loh-koo koo-nga-kah-bee kah-leh]
• Can you lower the price?Ungakwazi ukuthuthukisa isilinganiso?
  [oon-gah-kwah-zee oo-koo-too-thoo-kee-sah ee-see-lee-ngah-nee-so]

• What time is it?Sikuphi isikhathi?
  [see-koo-pee ee-see-kha-tee]
• It's one o'clockKuyatholakala ekuseni
  [koo-yah-tho-la-kah-lah eh-koo-seh-nee]
• Half past (10)Kuyatholakala ekugcineni
  [koo-yah-tho-la-kah-lah eh-koo-gee-nee-neh]
• MorningEkuseni
  [eh-koo-seh-nee]
• AfternoonNgoLwesine
  [n-go-lwe-see-neh]
• EveningEbusuku
  [eh-boo-soo-koo]
• YesterdayNgesikhathi yesibili
  [n-geh-see-kha-thee ye-see-bee-lee]
• TodayNamuhla
  [nah-moo-shlah]
• TomorrowKusasa
  [koo-sa-sah]
• 1Kunye
  [koo-nyeh]
• 2Kubili
  [koo-bee-lee]
• 3Kuthathu
  [koo-tah-thoo]
• 4Kune
  [koo-neh]
• 5Kuhlanu
  [koo-hlah-noo]
• 6Isithupha
  [ee-see-too-pah]
• 7Isikhombisa
  [ee-see-khom-bee-sah]
• 8Isishagalombili
  [ee-see-sha-gah-lohm-bee-lee]
• 9Isishagalolunye
  [ee-see-sha-gah-loh-loo-nyeh]
• 10Ishumi
  [ee-shoo-mee]

• Where's a/the...?Kuphi i...
  [koo-pee ee]
• What's the address?Yiyo indawo yezwakala?
  [yee-yoh een-dah-woh yeh-zwah-kah-lah]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Ungangibonisi (ekhombisa emephu)?
  [oon-gah-ngee-boh-nee-see eh-khom-bee-sah eh-meh-poo]
• When's the next (bus)?Kuphi i-ntuthuko elandzaku?
  [koo-pee ee-ntoo-thoo-koh eh-lahn-dzah-koo]
• A ticket (to ....)Itikithi (kusuka ku ....)
  [ee-tee-kee-thee (koo-soo-kah koo)]

The area around Tshaneni Border Post has been inhabited for centuries, with early settlers from various Nguni-speaking groups. These communities were primarily agrarian, relying on the fertile lands for farming and livestock herding. The region's early history is marked by the migration and settlement of these groups, who were drawn to the area by its rich natural resources and strategic location.

In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the region around Tshaneni came under British colonial influence. The border post itself was established as a strategic point for the administration of the colony. This period saw significant infrastructural development, including roads and administrative buildings, which facilitated trade and movement between Eswatini and its neighboring territories.

After Eswatini gained independence from British rule in 1968, Tshaneni Border Post continued to play a crucial role in the nation's development. The border post became a key point for cross-border trade and travel, helping to boost the local economy. Modernization efforts in the late 20th and early 21st centuries saw the introduction of improved facilities and services at the border post, making it a vital gateway for both locals and international travelers.

Tshaneni Border Post is not just a point of entry but also a cultural landmark. The area is home to a mix of Swazi traditions and customs, which are evident in the local festivals, ceremonies, and daily life. Visitors to the border post can experience the rich cultural tapestry of Eswatini, from traditional dances to local crafts and cuisine.

The border post has had a significant impact on the local economy, providing employment opportunities and fostering trade. The flow of goods and people through Tshaneni has helped to stimulate economic activity in the region, contributing to the overall development of Eswatini. The border post serves as a critical link in the supply chain for various goods, including agricultural products and manufactured goods.

Tshaneni Border Post holds strategic importance for Eswatini, both economically and politically. Its location makes it a vital point for monitoring and regulating cross-border movement, ensuring national security. The border post also plays a role in diplomatic relations with neighboring countries, highlighting its significance beyond just a point of entry.

Tshaneni Border Post is located in the northeastern part of Eswatini, near the border with South Africa. The nearest major city is Manzini, approximately 90 kilometers away. Travelers can reach Tshaneni by flying into King Mswati III International Airport (SHO) near Manzini. From the airport, you can rent a car or hire a taxi to drive to Tshaneni. The journey by road typically takes around 1.5 to 2 hours. Alternatively, you can take a bus or shuttle service from Manzini or Mbabane to Tshaneni.

In Tshaneni, the most common modes of transportation are taxis and minibuses. Taxis are readily available and can be hired for short trips or for the entire day. Minibuses, known locally as 'kombi', operate on fixed routes and are an affordable way to get around. For those looking to explore the area at their own pace, renting a car is a viable option. The roads are generally in good condition, but it is advisable to have a GPS or map for navigation.

The official currency in Eswatini is the Swazi Lilangeni (SZL), which is pegged to the South African Rand (ZAR). Both currencies are accepted interchangeably in most places. Credit and debit cards are accepted in major hotels, restaurants, and shops, but it is advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments and rural areas. ATMs are available in Tshaneni, but it's a good idea to withdraw sufficient cash in Manzini or Mbabane before traveling.

Tshaneni is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, as with any travel destination, it's 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 Tshaneni, but always stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings.

In case of emergency, dial 999 for police, medical, or fire assistance. The local police station and medical facilities are available in Tshaneni. 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 or cultural sites. Avoid wearing overly revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Always ask for permission before taking photos of people or religious ceremonies. 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 friendly smile. It's customary to address elders with respect. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and accept food offerings graciously. Don't refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.

To experience Tshaneni 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 willing to share stories about the area's history and culture. Don't miss out on visiting the nearby Hlane Royal National Park for a chance to see wildlife like elephants, rhinos, and lions. For a unique experience, attend a traditional Swazi dance performance, which offers insight into the rich cultural heritage of Eswatini.