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]
