Religion in Swaziland

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The population of Swaziland is approximately 35 percent Protestant, 30 percent Zionist, 25 percent Catholic, and 1 percent Muslim.^[1] The remaining 9 percent of the population is divided among the Baha'i Faith, the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (Mormons), Judaism, and other religious groups.^[1] Zionism, a blend of Christianity and indigenous ancestral worship, is the predominant religion in rural areas.^[1] A large Roman Catholic presence, including churches, schools, and other infrastructure, continues to flourish.^[1] The country forms a single diocese - the Diocese of Manzini. Followers of Islam and the Baha'i Faith generally are located in urban areas.^[1] Islam in Swaziland probably dates to the colonial period, when many Muslims settled in the country from other countries under the dominion of the British Empire.^{[citation needed]} Most immigrants from South Asia practice Islam.^[1] There are few atheists.^[1] Missionaries continue to play a role in rural development.^[1]

The new Constitution, which went into effect on February 8, 2006, provides for freedom of religion. The Government generally respects freedom of religion in practice.^[1] The US government received no reports of societal abuse or discrimination based on religious belief or practice during 2007.^[1]

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