Mbabane – The Ministry of Labour and Social Security has used this year’s International Workers’ Day to congratulate workers across the Kingdom while pointing to significant labour sector achievements recorded under the reign of His Majesty King Mswati III.
The ministry’s message, signed by Minister Phila W. Buthelezi, noted that the 2026 celebration carries special weight as the Kingdom marks 40 years of His Majesty’s reign and 58 years of his birth.
Among the milestones cited was the amendment of the Industrial Relations Act in 2014, which allowed for the registration of trade and business federations. Following that reform, the country registered the Trade Union Congress of Swaziland (TUCOSWA), the Federation of Swaziland Trade Unions (FESWATU), and the Business Federation (BUFE). These joined already-existing federations Business Eswatini (BE) and the Federation of Swaziland Business Community (FESBC). 
The ministry also pointed to the historic voluntary conciliation between the government and TUCOSWA in 2021, describing it as the first of its kind on the African continent, and one that has since strengthened social dialogue and cooperation between the two parties.
The enactment of the Public Order Act of 2017 and the development of codes of conduct during protest action were also listed as steps that have brought order to industrial relations in the country.
Looking ahead, the ministry urged workers and stakeholders to participate in Parliament’s public submissions process on two pieces of legislation currently before the House of Assembly: the Employment Bill No. 12 of 2024 and the Eswatini National Provident Fund Conversion Bill of 2025. The latter is expected to improve social security coverage and strengthen pension sustainability and accessibility for workers.
The ministry also called on all parties to work toward the establishment of a National Minimum Wage, a holistic review of the Industrial Relations Act, finalisation of the Unemployment Benefit Fund Bill, and the development of both the Occupational Health and Safety Bill and the Industrial and Vocational Training Bill.
