Why is the Usutu River important in Eswatini?

The Usutu River is a vital component of Eswatini’s geography, serving as the country's largest river catchment area. It is one of the nation's major perennial rivers that originates in South Africa and flows through Eswatini toward the Indian Ocean.1

The river system is supported by three primary tributaries: the Lusushwana, the Ngwempisi, and the Mkhondvo. Because Eswatini is one of the best-watered countries in southern Africa, the Usutu and other major rivers like the Komati are essential to the nation's drainage and water resources.1