By Phiwa Sikhondze
The Kingdom of Eswatini is set to host the International Social Security Association (ISSA) Technical Seminar, a pivotal event focusing on the prevention of fraud, strengthening compliance, and improvement of contribution collection in social security systems.
The seminar is scheduled to take place at the Happy Valley Hotel from the 22nd of April to the 24th of April, 2024.
Organized by the ISSA Liaison Office for Southern Africa and co-hosted by the Eswatini National Provident Fund (ENPF), the seminar aligns with ISSA’s mission to promote excellence in social security administration globally. It aims to provide policymakers and regulators with the tools and knowledge necessary to combat non-compliance and fraudulent activities that threaten the viability of social security systems.
Officially announcing the conference at the Happy Valley Hotel on Friday, the Minister of Labour & Social Security, Phila Buthelezi, expressed gratitude towards the foundational efforts of Their Majesties in establishing key institutions like the ENPF, which have been crucial in shaping Eswatini’s social security landscape. The Minister also recognized the role of ISSA in fostering learning and development opportunities for the country.
“Our affiliation with ISSA has provided invaluable opportunities for learning and development as we strive to become a global leader in social security policy and practice,” the Minister said.
The seminar will address the critical challenges faced by social security systems, including fraud and evasion of contributions. Social security is a fundamental aspect for individuals and societies, relying on solid financing, legal adherence, and a culture of solidarity and trust.
The event is expected to draw participation from 25 countries, with over 100 attendees from across Africa and beyond. Notable guests include ISSA Secretary General, Marcelo Abi-Ramia Caetano, and Patrick Ayota, the ISSA East African region chairman, among others.
Eswatini’s role as host presents an opportunity to showcase the Kingdom’s offerings, including tourist attractions, to the international community. The upcoming ISSA seminar in Eswatini marks a significant step in the nation’s commitment to enhancing its social security system and sharing knowledge with the international community. The seminar is poised to be a landmark event, fostering dialogue and collaboration among global social security experts and practitioners.