BY MBONO MDLULI
MBABANE – Montigny Investments has taken a significant and commendable step towards improving workers’ welfare by guaranteeing a minimum monthly income of E3 500 for all its workers, a move widely hailed as a milestone in labour relations within Eswatini’s forestry and agriculture sectors.
The progressive development follows successful negotiations involving Montigny Investments, its labour broker Gundane and Sons, and the Federation of Swaziland Trade Unions (FESWATU). FESWATU represents unions that speak for the majority of workers employed directly and indirectly by Montigny, making the agreement a far-reaching intervention with tangible benefits for hundreds of families.
Speaking during Montigny’s thanksgiving event held at Zombodze Emuva in the Shiselweni Region over the weekend, FESWATU President Mashumi Shongwe described the agreement as historic. He noted that, for the first time, a clear salary floor had been established, ensuring that no worker within the Montigny system would earn below E3 500 per month.
“This is a major breakthrough,” Shongwe said. “It is not something we see often in the industry. Montigny has set an example by recognising the importance of dignified wages and sharing value with its workers.”
Shongwe explained that the E3 500 minimum salary would apply particularly to junior workers employed through Gundane and Sons, the labour broking company contracted by Montigny Investments. He added that workers directly employed by Montigny, including management, also benefited from meaningful salary adjustments following the negotiations, further strengthening morale and stability across the workforce.
He praised Montigny’s leadership for its openness, fairness and willingness to engage constructively with labour representatives, noting that such cooperation created a healthier and more sustainable working environment. Shongwe expressed hope that the company would continue operating in a spirit of inclusivity and shared prosperity, benefiting workers, management and surrounding communities alike.
Beyond wages, the thanksgiving event itself highlighted Montigny’s broader commitment to social responsibility. The company organised the gathering as a gesture of appreciation towards farm dwellers at Mhlosheni, under Zombodze Emuva Inkhundla, recognising their cooperation and adherence to the Farm Dwellers Act of 1982.
According to Shongwe, Montigny expressed satisfaction with how residents have conducted themselves on the farm, respecting regulations and maintaining peaceful coexistence. The thanksgiving ceremony was therefore a way of acknowledging that positive relationship and reinforcing mutual respect between the company and the community.
Residents were encouraged to maintain the same spirit of cooperation and accountability. They were also reminded to make use of the toll-free number 3344 to report any suspected unlawful activities in their area, reinforcing a shared commitment to safety, transparency and lawful conduct.
The developments at Montigny Investments demonstrate how constructive dialogue between employers, workers and unions can lead to meaningful improvements in living standards. At a time when many workers face rising costs of living, the introduction of a clear minimum wage within the company offers increased financial security and dignity for employees and their families.
By prioritising fair wages, community engagement and respect for the law, Montigny Investments has positioned itself as a model corporate citizen, showing that business success and worker welfare can advance hand in hand for the benefit of the wider nation.
