BY SIFISO NHLABATSI
MBABANE – Minister of Labour and Social Security Phila Buthelezi has urged employers not to treat Wages Regulation Orders as the maximum salaries workers should earn, saying the prescribed rates are minimum standards that should be improved where businesses have the financial capacity.
Speaking during the official launch of the newly appointed Wages Councils for Eswatini’s 18 regulated sectors, Buthelezi said employers capable of paying more should do so through collective bargaining and workplace dialogue.
“The Wages Regulation Orders established through your recommendations prescribe minimum standards. They should never be viewed as maximum wages,” he said.
He encouraged employers and employees to negotiate in good faith to reach mutually beneficial agreements that improve workers’ welfare while enhancing productivity and business sustainability.
The Minister said the Wages Councils play a critical role in promoting decent work, social justice, industrial peace and inclusive economic development by providing a platform for employers and employees to determine fair minimum wages and conditions of employment.
He said the newly appointed council members assume office at a time when businesses are recovering from economic shocks, technology is transforming workplaces and workers continue to grapple with the rising cost of living.
He said these challenges require balanced and evidence-based decisions that protect workers while ensuring enterprises remain productive, competitive and sustainable.
Buthelezi reminded council members that their recommendations directly affect the livelihoods of thousands of workers and the viability of businesses across the country.
He outlined Government’s expectations for the councils during their three-year term, including conducting wage reviews within prescribed timelines, relying on objective economic evidence such as inflation, productivity, employment trends, enterprise sustainability and competitiveness, while ensuring broad stakeholder consultation.
The Minister also called on members to uphold the highest standards of ethics, confidentiality and professionalism, saying their deliberations should always be guided by fairness, natural justice and the national interest.
He reaffirmed Government’s commitment to supporting the councils through the Ministry of Labour and Social Security by providing technical assistance, administrative support and capacity-building initiatives to strengthen members’ understanding of labour legislation, wage determination and negotiation processes.
Buthelezi officially launched the Wages Councils for the Kingdom’s 18 regulated sectors, with members expected to serve for a three-year term. Their induction is scheduled to begin on Friday.
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