Eswatini

In Eswatini, the Employment Act of 1980 outlines the rights of employees regarding vacation leave.

Minimum Vacation Entitlement

For employees who have been employed for at least 21 consecutive days per month over a 12-month period, they are entitled to a minimum of 14 working days of paid vacation leave per year. Employees who work less than the full 21 days per month are also entitled to vacation leave, but it is calculated proportionately.

Accrual and Eligibility

Vacation leave generally accrues proportionally throughout the qualifying 12-month period. The scheduling of vacation leave is typically determined by an agreement between the employer and the employee. It is generally expected that employees take their accrued leave within the year that it's earned.

Compensation

During vacation periods, employees are entitled to receive their regular salary in full.

Eswatini, a small country in Southern Africa, celebrates a variety of public holidays throughout the year. These holidays are a mix of national, historical, and religious events that are officially recognized by the government.

Fixed Date Holidays

• New Year's Day (January 1st): This day marks the start of the calendar year.
• Somhlolo Day (Independence Day) and King's Birthday (April 19th): These two holidays coincide on the same day. They commemorate the day Eswatini gained independence from Britain in 1968 and celebrate the birth of the King of Eswatini.
• National Flag Day (April 25th): This day commemorates the first time Eswatini's flag was raised after gaining independence.
• Labor Day (May 1st): This international holiday celebrates the contributions of workers.
• Ascension Day (May/June): This Christian holiday commemorates the ascension of Jesus Christ into heaven. The exact date varies each year.
• Umhlanga Reed Dance Day (August/September): This traditional cultural celebration involves women gathering to cut reeds and present them to the Queen Mother. It is observed on the last Monday of August or the first Monday of September.
• Incwala Day (December/January): This traditional holiday involves cultural practices and ceremonies for cleansing and renewal. The specific date varies each year.
• Christmas Day (December 25th): This Christian holiday celebrates the birth of Jesus Christ.
• Boxing Day (December 26th): This holiday is observed the day after Christmas Day.

In Eswatini, the Employment Act of 1980 and other labor regulations provide employees with various types of leave to cater to their personal needs and circumstances.

Vacation Leave

Employees become eligible for at least 14 working days of paid annual leave after working for a full 12-month period. During vacation leave periods, employees receive full pay.

Sick Leave

Employees are entitled to paid sick leave after completing six months of continuous service. The specified duration may depend on employment duration and collective agreements. Compensation for sick leave is usually a portion of regular pay, with the exact amount depending on the length of service. Employers may require a medical certificate to validate the need for sick leave.

Maternity Leave

Female employees are entitled to 14 weeks of maternity leave, generally split before and after childbirth. Employers are legally obligated to pay maternity leave for a minimum of one month, and the remaining period may be covered by benefits.

Other Types of Leave

Compassionate Leave (Bereavement Leave)

Employees may be entitled to short-term paid leave in the case of the death of a close family member.

Special Circumstance Leave

Employees may be entitled to short-term leave for circumstances such as marriage, medical appointments, or civic duties. The specific provisions may depend on employment agreements or workplace policies.