By Zamandulo Ntshalintshali
Business Eswatini (BE), the premier voice of the Kingdom of Eswatini’s private sector, is making waves at the International Labour Conference (ILC) in Geneva, where global leaders are shaping the future of work.
At the heart of the discussions is the Standard Setting of the Platform Economy —a transformative shift that will redefine industries, labour markets, and economic structures worldwide.
Leading BE’s delegation are BE President, Mvuselelo Fakudze (who is also the Chief Executive of Standard Bank Eswatini) and Chief Executive Officer, E. Nathi Dlamini. Their active participation underscores BE’s commitment to ensuring that Eswatini’s business community remains at the forefront of global labour and economic policy discussions.
President Mvuselelo Fakudze has taken a keen interest in the standard-setting processes of the Platform Economy, emphasizing its far-reaching implications.
“The impact of the Geneva Convention on the Platform Economy will be cross-cutting—no industry will be left untouched,” Fakudze stated. “The intensity of the debate in the ILO plenary sessions confirms just how critical this issue is. As BE President, I am privileged to represent Eswatini’s private sector in these discussions and to engage with global employers shaping the future of work.”
Fakudze highlighted the rapid digital transformation disrupting traditional business models, particularly in financial services. He stated that the he shift from analogue banking to digital platforms is unstoppable.
“Financial institutions, including ours at Standard Bank Eswatini, are already embracing these changes to deliver innovative solutions. But with this transformation comes a fundamental shift in the nature of work—new skills, new employment models, and new challenges. As business leaders, we must plan ahead, adopt early, and ensure that ‘decent work’ remains central to every decision we make,” he said.
He also stressed the need for clarity in defining workers within the Platform Economy, noting: “Referring to them simply as ‘digital platform workers’ understates the complexity of this evolving sector. We need precise definitions to ensure fair labour practices, social protection, and sustainable growth.”
Manwhile, BE’s Chief Executive Officer, amplifying Eswatini’s voice on the Global Stage reinforced the importance of Eswatini’s representation at the ILC, stating:
“Our presence in Geneva is not just about participation—it’s about influence. Business Eswatini is here to ensure that the unique perspectives of Eswatini’s private sector are heard in global policy-making. The Platform Economy is not a distant future—it is already here, and we must shape regulations that foster innovation while protecting workers and businesses.”
Dlamini added that BE is committed to equipping local businesses with the insights and strategies needed to navigate these changes, noting that the decisions made at the conference will shape labour laws, digital trade, and economic policies for years to come.
“We are engaging with international employers, sharing best practices, and bringing back actionable knowledge to empower Eswatini’s business community,” he said.
The Platform Economy — encompassing gig work, digital marketplaces, and AI-driven services—is revolutionizing how businesses operate. BE’s leadership at the ILC ensures that:
Fair and inclusive policies are advocated for, balancing innovation with worker protection.
Eswatini’s private sector has a seat at the table in global labour standards.
Local businesses are prepared for digital disruption and can leverage new opportunities.