Creating safer workplaces: Business Eswatini launches training on preventing and addressing violence and harassment at work
18 February 2025
(ILO News) – With technical support from the International Labour Organization (ILO) Bureau for Employers’ Activities (ACT/EMP) and the Gender, Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion (GEDI) Branch, Business Eswatini (BE) proudly launched its groundbreaking training programme aimed at Preventing and Addressing Violence and Harassment at Work.
In November 2024, BE, alongside other Employer and Business Membership Organizations (EBMOs) from East and Southern Africa, participated in a Training of Trainers (ToT) programme organized by ACT/EMP in partnership with GEDI and the Pretoria Decent Work Team in Johannesburg, South Africa. This intensive two-day training provided participants with the knowledge and tools necessary to tackle violence and harassment at work effectively. BE’s training programme marks a significant milestone as it is the first EBMO among the seven participating countries to roll out a training to its enterprise members.
Building on this foundation, BE swiftly brought the training home. From February 18 to 20, 2025, 23 representatives from 16 enterprises across 10 economic sectors—including forestry, energy, petroleum, construction, banking, local government, civil aviation, agriculture, insurance, and tourism—attended the training. This diverse group of industries and enterprises underscore the widespread commitment to fostering safe and respectful workplaces throughout Eswatini.
The training programme covered a comprehensive agenda, including understanding the nature of violence and harassment at work, the legal framework, risk assessments to identify and mitigate hazards, and the development of effective enterprise policies. Participants also learned about the business case for addressing these issues, emphasizing that a safe and inclusive workplace is not only a moral imperative but also a strategic advantage.
We are honoured to lead this important effort in Eswatini. By equipping our members with the skills and knowledge to prevent and address violence and harassment at work, we will foster a culture of respect and dignity that benefits both employees and enterprises alike.
E. Nathi Dlamini, CEO of Business Eswatini, expressed his enthusiasm for the initiative, stating
This training initiative is a testament to Business Eswatini's commitment to creating healthier, safer, and more inclusive workplaces. It reflects the organization’s proactive approach to addressing critical issues that impact the well-being of workers and the overall productivity of enterprises.
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