Windhoek: The Namibian Revolutionary Transport and Manufacturing Union (NARETU) and Namib Mills have reached an agreement, ending a 59-day strike involving close to 1,000 workers. The union's commander-in-chief, Petersen Kambinda, revealed this during a media briefing.
According to Namibia Press Agency, the parties met five times with the Minister of Justice and Labour Relations, Fillemon Wise Immanuel. Kambinda expressed gratitude for the minister's efforts in resolving the matter, emphasizing that it should not have taken so long. The agreement includes provisions for workers to receive part of last year's benefits, with bonuses scheduled for this Friday and backpay expected the following week.
Kambinda confirmed that benefits for 2026 have been incorporated into the agreement. From July 1, members will automatically receive the improved benefits without further negotiations. He stressed the importance of discipline among Namib Mills employees as they return to work, urging them to meet production targets to facilitate future salary negotiations.
In an internal communication, Namib Mills acknowledged the agreement, stating that employees have 72 hours to return to work. The company emphasized the importance of stability and focus as operations return to normal and encouraged employees to recommit to their work.