BY MBONO MDLULI
MBABANE– Eswatini’s labour force has grown to 407 312 people, with the Manzini Region accounting for the largest share of workers and job seekers, according to findings from the 2025 Integrated Labour Force Survey (ILFS).
The survey, published by the Ministry of Labour and Social Security through the National Employment Statistics Unit, provides fresh insights into the composition of the country’s workforce, highlighting regional, gender and age trends that could shape future employment policies and economic planning.
According to the report, the national labour force consists of 216 334 males and 190 978 females, reflecting continued participation by both men and women in the country’s economic activities.
The data shows that Manzini Region contributes 36 percent of the national labour force, making it the country’s largest labour market. The region accounts for 37.2 percent of male workers and 34.7 percent of female workers, underlining its position as Eswatini’s economic and commercial hub.
The Hhohho Region follows with 31.9 percent of the labour force, while Lubombo accounts for 18.8 percent and Shiselweni contributes 13.3 percent.
Labour experts say the figures are consistent with population and economic activity patterns, as Manzini and Hhohho host the majority of businesses, industries, government institutions and service providers in the country.
The findings suggest that efforts to create jobs and stimulate economic growth in other regions could help balance labour market opportunities across the country.
Rural Areas Continue to Supply Majority of Workforce
The survey reveals that the majority of Eswatini’s labour force continues to come from rural communities.
According to the report, 70.6 percent of all economically active people live in rural areas, compared to 29.4 percent in urban areas.
Among males, 70.1 percent of the labour force resides in rural communities, while the figure stands at 71 percent among females.
The statistics highlight the important role played by rural economies in sustaining the country’s workforce. Agriculture, forestry, small-scale trade and informal sector activities remain key sources of livelihood for many households outside urban centres.
Economists say the figures reinforce the need for investment in rural development programmes, infrastructure, skills training and entrepreneurship initiatives that can unlock economic opportunities closer to where most workers live.
Prime Working Age Group Leads Labour Market
The survey also provides a breakdown of labour force participation by age group.
The largest share of economically active citizens falls within the 30 to 34-year age group, which accounts for 15.3 percent of the total labour force.
This is followed by people aged 25 to 29 years, who make up 14.7 percent, while those aged 40 to 44 years account for 14.4 percent.
Individuals aged 45 to 49 years contribute 13 percent of the labour force, while those aged 35 to 39 years account for 14.4 percent.
The findings indicate that Eswatini’s labour market is largely driven by people in their prime productive years, a factor that presents significant opportunities for economic growth if employment opportunities continue to expand.
Younger workers aged 20 to 24 years account for 10.7 percent of the labour force, while those aged 15 to 19 years represent only 3.7 percent, reflecting the fact that many in this age bracket are still pursuing education.
At the other end of the spectrum, workers aged 65 years and above account for 2.8 percent of the labour force, demonstrating that some older citizens remain economically active beyond traditional retirement age.
Importance for National Planning
Labour analysts say the survey provides valuable information for government, investors and development partners seeking to strengthen employment creation strategies.
Understanding where workers are located and which age groups dominate the labour market allows policymakers to design targeted programmes that respond to the realities on the ground.
The findings also reinforce the importance of supporting youth employment initiatives, skills development programmes and enterprise growth opportunities that can absorb the growing workforce.
With more than 407 000 people participating in the labour market, Eswatini continues to possess a significant pool of human capital that can contribute to national development, industrial growth and economic transformation.
The survey’s latest findings are expected to inform future policy decisions aimed at improving employment outcomes and ensuring that the country’s labour force remains productive, competitive and prepared for emerging economic opportunities.
