BY MBONO MDLULI
MBABANE – Lubombo Region has recorded the highest unemployment rate in Eswatini, according to the 2025 Integrated Labour Force Survey.
The survey found that unemployment in Lubombo stands at 39.2 per cent, making it the region with the largest proportion of job seekers without work.
Hhohho followed with an unemployment rate of 37.3 per cent, while Shiselweni recorded 35.7 per cent. Manzini had the lowest unemployment rate in the country at 26.3 per cent.
The findings reinforce Manzini’s status as the country’s economic hub, benefiting from higher concentrations of industrial, commercial and service sector activities.
In contrast, Lubombo’s unemployment rate has steadily worsened over the years. The survey shows that unemployment in the region increased from 28.6 per cent in 2016 to 39.2 per cent in 2025.
Shiselweni also experienced significant fluctuations, rising sharply to 42.7 per cent in 2023 before easing slightly to 35.7 per cent this year.
The report further reveals regional disparities in the potential labour force. Manzini accounts for 31.3 per cent of the country’s potential labour force, followed by Hhohho at 25.8 per cent, Shiselweni at 22.4 per cent and Lubombo at 20.5 per cent.
Labour economists say the figures demonstrate the need for region-specific economic development strategies to address uneven employment opportunities across the country.
They argue that investments in infrastructure, agriculture, tourism and small business development could help stimulate economic activity in regions with persistently high unemployment levels.
The survey’s findings are expected to inform future government policies aimed at reducing unemployment and promoting balanced regional development across Eswatini.
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