By Thokozani Mazibuko
The Minister of Public Service, Mabulala Maseko has shed light on the ongoing Salary Review process and the pressing concerns regarding civil servants’ welfare.
The meeting, chaired by Senator Lizzie Nkosi, took place as part of the Second Quarter Performance Report proceedings.
Minister Maseko stated that the much-anticipated completion date for the Salary Review Consultant’s exercise is set for June 2025.
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He acknowledged the existing negotiations regarding the backdating of the Salary Review recommendations, a matter that has generated considerable interest among civil servants, especially junior officers.
“We plead for patience from the Junior Officers,” he emphasized, highlighting the historical context of these discussions, which date back to 2008 and gained traction in 2014, resulting in a partial 4% salary increase as a temporary solution for the Security Forces.
The Minister noted that the Phase II Salary Issue is currently under the purview of the Prime Minister’s Office, further stressing that the consultant was specifically tasked with addressing the Security Forces’ concerns.
This is a complex issue requiring thorough negotiation and careful consideration,” he explained.
In discussing other key developments, Minister Maseko shared information about the Joint Negotiating Team (JNT) that has been working on the Joint Negotiation Framework (JNF) and the consequent Cost of Living Adjustment (CoLA) negotiations.
He confirmed that a 4% CoLA has been successfully concluded, effective from April, which should provide some relief to civil servants amidst ongoing economic challenges.
The Salary Review process, according to the Minister, also encompasses the Security Forces, signaling a comprehensive approach towards the compensation of all public servants.
“Civil Servants’ welfare is a priority,” he affirmed, reiterating the government’s commitment to ensuring that the needs of its workforce are adequately met.
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Amidst the ongoing salary discussions, Minister Maseko remarked on the importance of benchmarking Eswatini’s public service pay structures against those of other countries, a strategy expected to guide future negotiations and adjustments.
A notable point raised during the report was the significant gap between demand and supply in terms of accommodation for civil servants.
With 44,000 civil servants currently employed in Eswatini, the government has received 1,701 requests for housing, yet only 18 houses have been allocated.
This pressing issue, alongside the recruitment drive that saw 317 posts filled during the Second Quarter primarily in the Health and Education sector, reflects the ongoing challenges faced by the public service.
Minister Maseko concluded his presentation by emphasizing the government’s recognition of the essential role civil servants play in maintaining the health and education sectors, among others.
As the situation surrounding civil service salaries and welfare continues to develop, stakeholders will be watching closely for any further updates.
