By Mbono Mdluli
LOBAMBA – The Eswatini government has allocated E500 million to implement the salary review for the 2025/26 financial year.
This announcement was made by Minister of Finance Neal Rijkenberg during his Budget Speech on February 14, 2025, in the House of Assembly.
Budget Allocation Details
Rijkenberg stated that the allocated funds were intended to cover the anticipated outcomes of the salary review exercise. He explained that this allocation would also accommodate any other wage increases and related expenses.
The minister further noted that the wage bill for public servants in the 2025/26 financial year is expected to reach E10.48 billion, compared to E9.80 billion in the previous year.
Inclusion of Junior Security Officers
During a pre-budget conference in Mbabane, held on the same day, Rijkenberg confirmed that the E500 million allocation would also include provisions for junior security officers. These officers are employed by the country’s public security organisations, including:
- Royal Eswatini Police Service (REPS)
- His Majesty’s Correctional Service (HMCS)
- Umbutfo Eswatini Defence Force (UEDF)
Expectations of Civil Servants
The minister acknowledged that some civil servants expected a 20% salary increase. However, he explained that meeting this expectation would require the government to allocate approximately E1.5 billion, which he described as a significant challenge.
Call for Understanding and Patience
Rijkenberg urged civil servants to be patient and understanding, emphasizing that the nation is a collective family, with many people being interrelated.
He highlighted the government’s responsibility to ensure an equitable distribution of resources, stressing that vulnerable groups, such as the elderly and people with disabilities, also require financial support and should not be overlooked.
The government remains committed to ensuring fair compensation for public servants while balancing financial sustainability and supporting other national priorities.