Objectives:

• Preserve natural and cultural heritage
• Continue to develop nature conservation in the country
• Create awareness and educate the public on conservation of natural and cultural heritage
• Promote tourism relating to the natural and cultural heritage of the country
• Implementation of all activities relating to biodiversity conservation, including responsibilities as recognised by the Swaziland Environmental Authority and other government bodies
• Implementation of other biodiversity related legislation

It is important to ensure that all STNC's activities have a minimum negative impact on the long term conservation of the natural and cultural heritage. The SNTC has a vital role to play in enhancing the quality of life in Swaziland, through conservation of its natural and cultural heritage, in the long term. SNTC's responsibilities are on a national level and are not restricted to existing SNTC managed areas.

History

The Swaziland National Trust Commission was established by Act No. 9 of 1972, with later amendments, made effective from 27 July 1973.

Cultural Heritage

The Museum, National Monuments and Archaeology departments are responsible for the protection of Swaziland's cultural heritage.

Natural Heritage

The Wildlife/Parks Department is responsible for the conservation of Swaziland's natural heritage. The is department is responsible for conserving the country's natural ecosystems, its plant and animal life, and promoting the wise utilisation of these resources. Its objectives are:

• to establish and maintain national parks, nature reserves and other protected areas
• to create and promote environmental awareness within the general public
• to promote conservation activities outside protected areas, and to advise, promote and facilititate community managed activities that improve the quality of life while reducing undesirable impacts on the environment
• to promote and provide advice on ecological research and monitoring .

In order to achieve these objectives, there are four sections under this department, namely Parks/Biodiversity Management, Environmental Education, Community Outreach and Ecology/Research.

The programmes operated by this department, although focussed mainly on existing protected areas, also extend to elsewhere in the country as the SNTC has the responsibility for the protection of Swaziland's biodiversity.