The Ministry of Labour and Social Security (MoLSS) launched the National Human Resource Development Policy (NHRDP) 2024-2030 on August 8, 2025, at the Hilton Hotel, in partnership with the Eswatini Economic Policy Analysis and Research Centre (ESEPARC). The Policy launch follows extensive nationwide consultations with key stakeholders and incorporates lessons from regional and international experiences.
Speaking at the event, Acting Director for Human Resource Planning and Development Ms. Gcebile Dlamini said the policy aims to “transform human resource systems, improve skills development coordination, and ensure inclusive access to lifelong learning for all emaSwati.”
Acting Senior Research Fellow at ESEPARC, Mrs. Thembumenzi Dlamini Mnisi, outlined the goal of the Policy, which is to develop human resource capacities that will drive industrial growth, job creation, and sustainable development. “The policy seeks to address long-standing challenges such as limited educational pathways, skills mismatches, and fragmented coordination between training and research institutions, and other issues affecting skills development in the country,” Dlamini explained.
Despite Eswatini having an over 90% literacy rate and free primary education, many graduates struggle to progress to higher qualifications, and those with technical and vocational skills often face limited recognition of their competencies.
During discussions, stakeholders emphasised the need for improved coordination between education providers and industry. Key recommendations included involving the National Curriculum Centre in curriculum reviews and designing frameworks that avoid overburdening businesses with additional taxes.
Honourable Minister of Labour and Social Security, Phila Buthelezi, described the policy as “a key milestone in the Kingdom’s efforts to invest in its most valuable resource – its people.” “The policy is Eswatini’s coordinated response to the challenges of skills mismatches, underemployment, and youth unemployment,” the Minister stated. He further mentioned that the Policy reflects the aspirations set out in Eswatini’s national development plans and strategies and aligns with global development frameworks such as the Sustainable Development Goals.
To ensure effective implementation, Minister Buthelezi announced the establishment of a multi-sectoral National Human Resource Development Council. The council will monitor progress, facilitate cross-sector dialogue, and ensure accountability among stakeholders. The Minister called for strong collaboration across government departments, the private sector, educational institutions, civil society, and development partners.
The Policy implementation will be led by the MoLSS, with support from the National Human Resource Development Council, marking what officials describe as a defining moment in Eswatini’s journey toward a knowledge-driven economy.
