BY MBONO MDLULI
MBABANE – Eswatini Government, through the Ministry of Public Service, has reopened the Joint Negotiation Forum (JNF) and invited Public Service Unions (PSUs) for fresh engagements, including discussions surrounding salary notching.
The development is being viewed as a positive step towards continued dialogue between government and organised labour following recent tensions over notching for civil servants. According to a letter dated 21 April 2026 and signed by Cebile Nhlabatsi on behalf of the JNF Chairperson, the unions have been invited to attend the forum on Thursday, 30 April 2026.
Fresh Opportunity for Constructive Engagement
The stated purpose of the upcoming meeting is to continue discussions on notching, an issue that has recently attracted significant attention within the public service. Minister of Public Service Hon. Mabulala Maseko confirmed that the ministry had indeed extended the invitation to the unions.
He emphasised that government has formally opened the JNF platform, creating room for structured engagement with labour representatives on matters affecting civil servants. Observers say the reopening of the forum signals a willingness by both sides to seek common ground through negotiation rather than confrontation.
JNF Covers Broad Labour Matters
While notching is expected to be among the major issues raised, the minister indicated that the Joint Negotiation Forum traditionally deals with a range of labour-related matters affecting public servants.
He noted that discussions within the JNF are usually broad in nature, covering various concerns linked to employment conditions, remuneration, and industrial relations. However, he did not disclose other specific matters expected to be tabled during the upcoming meeting.
Positive Sign for Industrial Relations
The latest move has been welcomed as an important step in maintaining constructive labour relations within the public sector.
The JNF serves as a recognised platform for dialogue between government and public service unions, enabling both parties to address disputes, review policies, and discuss workers’ concerns through formal channels.
Labour analysts say regular engagement through the forum is essential for promoting stability, transparency, and trust between employer and employee representatives.
Attention Turns to 30 April Meeting
With the meeting now scheduled, attention will turn to whether progress can be made on the notching issue and other matters affecting civil servants. Public workers have shown keen interest in the outcome of negotiations, particularly after recent uncertainty surrounding salary progression.
The upcoming talks are expected to provide an opportunity for both government and unions to reset relations and work towards practical solutions. As anticipation builds, many civil servants will be hoping that the reopening of the JNF marks the beginning of renewed cooperation and meaningful progress.
