The Kingdom of Swaziland, located in southeastern Africa, has an area of 6,704 sq. mi. (17,360 sq. km.) and a population of 984,000. Capital: Mbabane (administrative); Lobamba (legislative). The diversified economy includes mining, agriculture, and light industry. Asbestos, iron ore, wood pulp, and sugar are exported. ,The people of the present Swazi nation established themselves in an area including what is now Swaziland in the early 1800s. The first Swazi contact with the British came early in the region of the extremely able Swazi leader King Mswati II when he asked the British for aid against Zulu raids into Swaziland. The British and Transvaal responded by guaranteeing the independence of Swaziland, 1861. South Africa assumed the power of protection and administration in 1894 and Swaziland continued under this administration until the conquest of the Transvaal during the Anglo-Boer War, when administration was transferred to the British government. After World War II, Britain began to prepare Swaziland for independence, which was achieved on September 6, 1968 under the leadership of King Sobhuza II whose reign was of 61 years. His son, Prince Makhosetive was crowned King Mswati II on April 25, 1986 at the age of 18 years. The kingdom is a member of the Commonwealth of Nations. The king of Swaziland is Chief of State. The prime minister is Head of Government.,, ,,, Ruler:,,, ,British to 1968,, ,Sobhuza II, 1968-82,, ,Queen Ntombi, as regent, 1985-86,, ,King Mswati III, 1986-,, Monetary System:,,, ,1 Lilangeni = 100 Cents,,