Who We Are

Waterford Kamhlaba United World College of Southern Africa is a remarkable and pioneering secondary school based in Mbabane, Swaziland. For almost 50 years it has provided exceptional opportunities for academic achievement, personal growth and leadership development for students from across southern Africa and beyond.

Founded in 1963 with just 16 students, Southern Africa’s first multiracial school has successfully demonstrated that students thrive and excel in a non-racial environment, educated side by side on equal terms. The school has grown to accommodate over 600 students, and its earliest ideals of courage, leadership, equality, personal responsibility and academic excellence remain at its core.

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Waterford Kamhlaba offers education to Forms 1 to 5, with Form 5 sitting the International General Certificate of Secondary Education qualification, followed by two years dedicated to the International Baccalaureate (IB).

Waterford Kamhlaba’s academic reputation is exceptional and unique in Africa. IB students achieve an average of about 34 points, which the British university admissions system equates to more than four A grades at A-level.

"We are all of the earth, which does not see differences of colour, religion or race. We are 'Kamhlaba'-All of one World"

- His Majesty King Sobhuza II

“Through the generosity of others, my children and grandchildren enjoyed the benefits of a Waterford education. It is my hope that through the provision of funding for bursaries, children will be able to experience the freedom that education brings.”

– Nelson Mandela,

Former Waterford parent and grandparent

“Any of you who were wondering whether you wanted to write out cheques, know that you are investing in an outstanding institution that has produced some quite remarkable human beings.”

–Desmond Tutu

Former Waterford parent and grandparent