The Minister outlined four expectations for the Councils during their three-year term of office. First, Councils must conduct wage reviews within prescribed timeframes to provide certainty and prevent industrial disputes.
“Timely negotiations provide certainty for both employers and employees and help prevent unnecessary industrial disputes,” he said.
Second, the minister mentioned that recommendations must be based on objective evidence including inflation, productivity, employment trends, enterprise sustainability, competitiveness and the economic outlook. 
“Balanced decisions will contribute to both improved livelihoods and sustained economic growth,” Buthelezi said.
Third, Buthelezi said Councils should strengthen stakeholder engagement to ensure employers, workers and other relevant parties are heard.
“Inclusive consultation strengthens both the credibility and acceptance of your recommendations,” he said.
Fourth, members must uphold ethics, confidentiality and professionalism.
“Your deliberations should always be guided by the national interest, fairness and the principles of natural justice,” the Minister said.
Buthelezi said the Ministry of Labour and Social Security, through the Department of Labour, will provide technical and administrative support.
Capacity-building programmes will also be rolled out to strengthen members’ understanding of labour legislation, wage determination principles and negotiation processes.
He linked the work of the Councils to national development priorities, noting that economic growth and social progress are mutually reinforcing.
“Productive enterprises require motivated and fairly remunerated workers, while workers depend on successful and competitive businesses for secure employment opportunities.
The Wages Councils serve as an important bridge between these shared interests,” he said.
The Minister said government remains committed to decent work as provided for in the Constitution, the national development agenda and international labour standards.
“Fair wages and decent conditions of employment are essential pillars for reducing poverty, improving productivity, promoting social justice, and fostering economic growth,” Buthelezi said.
Addressing the newly appointed members directly, the Minister urged them to approach their work with commitment and impartiality.
“To the newly appointed members, I encourage you to embrace your responsibilities with commitment, impartiality and patriotism.
The decisions you make over the next three years will contribute significantly to improving labour standards, strengthening industrial harmony and advancing the decent work agenda in the Kingdom of Eswatini,” he said.
