BY MBONGENI NDLELA
MBABANE – The long-awaited Salary Review Report has finally been delivered, marking a major milestone in the journey toward improved remuneration for Eswatini’s public servants. The report was officially presented by the Salary Review Consultant, Emergence Human Capital-Umelusi, during a meeting between Public Sector Unions (PSUs) and the Government Negotiations Team (GNT) at Hilton Garden Hotel.
Jobs Reviewed, Pay Scales to Improve
Out of 44 979 employees across 1 113 public service jobs, 75% will retain their current grades but receive a salary adjustment, ensuring fairer compensation. 19% of jobs will be upgraded to higher pay scales, while 6% of civil service positions will also see grade upgrades. Although no upgrades were made in the teaching cadre, the proposed salary adjustments bring relief and optimism across the board.
Budget Scenarios Presented
The Consultant outlined several scenarios to guide the review. The recommended third scenario sets the budget at E1.17 billion, striking a balance between fiscal responsibility and meaningful salary improvement. Even in the leanest scenario, E579 million is allocated to ensure salary adjustments are achieved.
Better Allowances for Workers
Allowances were also revised significantly. Out of 23 remunerative and 30 circumstantial allowances reviewed, five new ones were proposed and 11 discontinued. Importantly, housing allowance has been increased as follows:
• A1–A5: E800
• B1–B5: E1,500
• C1–C5: E2,000
• D1–D5: E2,500
• E1–E5: E3,000
• F1–F3: E4,000
Travel allowance has also been upgraded from E0.16 per km to E0.67 per km.
Teachers will benefit from a Special Needs Allowance, while nurses and other civil servants will continue enjoying existing reviewed allowances.
Next Steps Toward Implementation
The process now enters a crucial phase. Tomorrow, September 10, 2025, an amended final draft will be presented to the Joint Negotiations Forum (JNF). Afterwards, engagements with principals will take place, leading to the signing of a Collective Agreement (CA). Implementation is scheduled for October 2025, with back pay included.
A Bright Future for Public Servants
The PSUs Secretariat emphasized that the “real work has begun” and called on all members to stay united until the implementation is complete. With structured adjustments, enhanced allowances, and a clear implementation plan, this development brings renewed hope for thousands of civil servants across Eswatini.
