Business Eswatini (BE) has engaged the newly appointed Senior Employer Specialist for Southern Africa, Luis Gonzalez, during his inaugural visit to the Kingdom, in a move expected to bolster employer coordination and revive the country’s strained social dialogue systems.
Gonzalez, who is based in Pretoria under the International Labour Organization (ILO) ACTEMP and Decent Work Team, held high-level discussions with BE leadership on 28 April 2026, focusing on strengthening employer representation and enhancing the effectiveness of tripartite institutions.
The official meet-and-greet at BE’s headquarters was more than a routine diplomatic courtesy. BE CEO E. Nathi Dlamini described the gathering as “electric with purpose,” marking the start of what both parties hope will be a transformative partnership to heal the country’s fractured social dialogue and strengthen the voice of employers.
Leading the BE delegation was the CEO, whose enthusiasm was palpable. He noted that Gonzalez’s visit comes at a critical juncture, as employers are navigating a complex labour market environment characterized by enterprise sustainability pressures, persistent unemployment, and ongoing institutional and policy reforms. The organization highlighted that these dynamics require stronger, more coordinated employer representation and effective social dialogue mechanisms; areas where the ILO’s expertise is most urgently needed.
Drawing on his experience across multiple regions, Gonzalez brings valuable technical expertise and comparative insight to support employer organizations in strengthening their institutional capacity and influence within national processes. He shared his excitement at engaging with BE, noting the organization’s reputation as a dynamic and proactive apex body.
Maximizing on the opportunity, BE presented its strategic focus and key projects. A key area of focus was the coordination of employer participation. With three federations operating within the national landscape, BE reaffirmed its role as the apex body responsible for convening employers, consolidating positions, and ensuring a unified and coherent voice in engagement with government and labour. BE emphasized the need for structured coordination frameworks aligned with international best practice to avoid fragmentation and enhance effectiveness.
BE also outlined its immediate priorities, with particular emphasis on strengthening social dialogue structures, including the Labour Advisory Board (LAB) and Wages Councils. Ongoing discussions around governance, representation, and decision-making frameworks within these institutions underscore the importance of credible and functional tripartite systems, especially at a time when social dialogue in Eswatini has become fragmented.
In response, Gonzalez reaffirmed the ILO’s commitment to supporting employer organizations through targeted technical assistance, capacity building, and facilitation of social dialogue, drawing on lessons and models from other regions. His visit signals that even in times of fractured dialogue, the pursuit of tripartite harmony remains non-negotiable.
The meeting concluded with a shared commitment to a structured programme of collaboration to strengthen employer coordination, enhance the effectiveness of social dialogue institutions, and support the sustainability and resilience of enterprises in Eswatini.