BY NOMTHANDAZO MAYISELA (INTERN)
MBABANE– Employees, executives and government leaders are expected to gather in Mbabane later this year for what organisers describe as an important step towards building healthier, more empowering workplaces in Eswatini.
The country’s first Empowered Workplace Indaba will be held on 6 December 2026 at the Mountain View Hotel under the theme “Rebuilding Corporate Culture: From Toxicity to Empowerment.” The event will bring together ministers, human resources professionals, health experts and business leaders to discuss workplace wellbeing, leadership and employee empowerment.
The initiative is spearheaded by workplace culture consultant and author Sipholesihle Daisy Lukhele, whose upcoming memoir Pretty Suits & Poisoned Mugs explores leadership dynamics, employee wellbeing and organisational challenges through personal corporate experiences.
Lukhele said many organisations continue to lose skilled workers because employees are seeking environments where they feel respected, supported and valued.
“This Indaba is about honest reflection and practical change,” she said.
The event comes at a time when conversations around employee mental health, workplace dignity and leadership accountability are becoming increasingly important across workplaces globally. Studies have shown that unhealthy work environments can negatively affect productivity, staff morale and employee retention.
Speakers at the gathering are expected to address issues including workplace rights, stress-related illnesses, leadership accountability, employee retention and contract literacy. Organisers believe the discussions will encourage organisations to create environments that support both productivity and employee wellbeing.
Among those expected to participate is Minister of Labour and Social Security Phila Buthelezi, alongside representatives from the banking sector, medical field, corporate management and human resources industry.
For many employees, the growing focus on workplace culture reflects changing expectations around professional life, where success is no longer measured only by performance, but also by wellbeing, respect and healthy working relationships.
Organisers say the Indaba aims to move beyond discussion and encourage meaningful action that can help organisations strengthen both their workforce and long-term growth.
#WorkplaceCulture #Leadership #EmployeeWellbeing #Eswatini
(Courtesy Pic)
