Africa-Press – Eswatini. Government has reassured the nation that the long-awaited salary review for the country’s uniformed forces is nearing completion.
This follows consultations between government officials, consultants, and representatives of the security services, including the Umbutfo Eswatini Defence Force (UEDF), Royal Eswatini Police Service (REPS), and His Majesty’s Correctional Services (HMCS).
Acting Government Spokesperson Thabile Mdluli confirmed in a statement today that the delay in implementing the salary review was due to the concurrent execution of the Phase II salary adjustments for the uniformed forces in September 2025. She emphasized that the review process is in its final stages and will be completed in time for implementation by November 2025.
“Consultants have assured Government that the Salary Review component of the uniformed forces is being finalised, working in consultation with all relevant stakeholders to ensure that a satisfactory outcome is reached,” said Mdluli.
Mdluli further clarified that the Treasury Department was unable to process the October salaries for uniformed officers due to system limitations, as the national payroll system processes all permanent government employees simultaneously. Consequently, the uniformed forces have been affected alongside other civil servants.
Despite this temporary challenge, government expressed deep regret for the inconvenience caused and reaffirmed its appreciation for the dedication and discipline of the men and women who safeguard Eswatini.
“His Majesty’s Government values their contribution to national safety and security and is committed to ensuring that their remuneration is reasonably reviewed like all other public servants,” Mdluli stated.
COSESA Urges Calm and Patience
Meanwhile, the Correctional Services Staff Association (COSESA), led by Chairperson Manqoba Lukhele, has also updated its members following consultations with the government-appointed consultant.
In a circular issued on 23 October 2025, Lukhele confirmed that the consultant has not yet finalized the report for the security forces, and that the Government is expected to provide clarification soon, particularly ahead of the 27th of October, which remains the official payday for civil servants.
“Membership will get full update in due course,” COSESA assured, urging officers to remain calm and await official communication from the relevant authorities.
A Shared Commitment to Progress
Both the Government and the Correctional Services Staff Association have underscored their commitment to ensuring that the salary review process is conducted fairly, transparently, and efficiently. The coordination between the two sides reflects a shared resolve to maintain stability and confidence within the nation’s security sector.
The development has been received positively across various quarters, as it demonstrates the Government’s continued prioritization of the welfare of security personnel, key players in maintaining peace, law, and order in the Kingdom.
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