Military of Swaziland

Military Of Swaziland

The military of Swaziland (Umbutfo Swaziland Defense Force) is used primarily during domestic protests, with some border and customs duties; the force has never been involved in a foreign conflict. The army has struggled with high rates of HIV infection, however since measures were put in place the rate is dropping.

The King is the Commander-in-Chief of the Umbutfo Swaziland Defense Force (USDF), and the substantive Minister of the Ministry of Defence. However, he delegates the responsibilities of the day-to-day activities of the executive arm of the government. There is a Defence Council, which is responsible for inter alia advising the King on all matters pertaining to the USDF. The USDF is commanded by LT General Stanley Dlamini; the deputy commander is Major General Jeffrey S. Tshabalala, and the formation commander is Major General Timothy M.Simelane.