… Minister Leads High-Level Factory Inspection
… Workers Raise Overtime, Salary and ENPF Concerns
… Government Orders Full Labour Law Investigation
BY MBONO MDLULI
MANZINI – Government has intensified its efforts to protect workers’ rights and enforce compliance with labour laws following a high-level inspection at Bay Leaf Textile and Apparel Company amid serious allegations of labour law violations.
The inspection, led by Minister of Labour and Social Security Phila Buthelezi, signals a growing determination by authorities to ensure that employees across the country are treated fairly and in accordance with the law.
Accompanying the Minister were Principal Secretary Makhosini Mndawe, Commissioner of Labour Kingdom Mamba and officials from the Manzini Labour Office. The team visited the textile manufacturer as part of the Ministry’s ongoing workplace inspection programme aimed at strengthening labour standards and improving working conditions in various industries.
The visit comes after a number of complaints were reportedly lodged by employees, raising concerns about working conditions and alleged violations of labour regulations.
Among the issues brought to the attention of authorities are allegations that workers have been compelled to work overtime without receiving payment, while some employees claim they are instructed to clock out at the end of their normal shifts before continuing to work additional hours without compensation.
Other allegations include workers being required to work on Saturdays without receiving the legally prescribed overtime rates or double pay where applicable. Employees have also reportedly raised concerns over delayed salary payments and the alleged failure by the company to remit contributions to the Eswatini National Provident Fund (ENPF), despite deductions being made from workers’ wages.
Further concerns relate to allegations that some employees have not been registered under the Workmen’s Compensation Scheme, a statutory requirement designed to provide protection and compensation in the event of workplace injuries or occupational illnesses.
During the inspection, the Minister and his delegation met both management and employees in an effort to establish the facts surrounding the allegations and gain a clear understanding of workplace practices at the company.
Officials assessed compliance with labour legislation while listening to concerns from workers and responses from management.
Addressing those present, Minister Buthelezi reaffirmed Government’s commitment to promoting decent work and protecting the rights of employees throughout the Kingdom.
He stressed that every worker deserves fair treatment, safe working conditions and lawful remuneration for services rendered.
The Minister further reminded employers that compliance with labour laws is not merely a legal requirement but also a moral responsibility that contributes to industrial harmony, productivity and national development.
In response to the complaints raised, the Ministry has directed labour inspectors to undertake a comprehensive investigation into all allegations. Should any violations be confirmed, appropriate enforcement measures will be taken in accordance with the Employment Act, the Workmen’s Compensation Act and other applicable legislation.
The investigation is expected to determine whether workers’ rights were violated and what corrective measures may be necessary to bring the workplace into full compliance with labour standards.
The latest inspection forms part of a broader nationwide campaign by the Ministry to strengthen workplace oversight, particularly in sectors that employ large numbers of workers.
Recent months have seen labour officials conducting similar inspections and engagements at various companies following concerns raised by employees and labour representatives.
Labour experts note that compliance with labour laws plays a critical role in maintaining industrial peace, protecting workers from exploitation and creating an environment that supports sustainable economic growth.
The Ministry has meanwhile encouraged workers across the country to continue reporting suspected labour violations through established channels, assuring employees that all complaints will be handled professionally and with the seriousness they deserve.
(Courtesy Pic)
