TIRI MASAWI
The Namib Desert Diamonds (Pty) Ltd (NAMDIA) Board of Directors hereby has terminated the contract of its Chief Executive Officer Alisa Amupolo effective immediately.
A statement released by the company’s Spokesperson Beverley Coussement on Friday said the decision follows an independent disciplinary hearing concluded on 23 September 2025.
The company said Amupolo was found guilty of two charges of gross negligence and one charge of gross insubordination.
“The disciplinary hearing, which commenced in November 2024, concerned operational decisions made by the CEO that led to losses for the business during the periods of April to August 2023, May 2024, and July 2024,” the statement said.
Board Chairperson Justus Hausiku said the decision was not taken lightly, but the Board believes it is in the best interest of the company and its success in a complex, competitive and rapidly evolving market.
“The Board would like to thank Dr. Amupolo for her service since
2022 and wish her well in her future endeavours,” he said.
The Chairperson further said the termination is not related to the ongoing investigations into the diamond theft that occurred in January 2025 that saw the company losing diamonds worth over N$300 million.
This is by far the country’s largest diamond heist since independence.
“Amupolo has the right to appeal the Board’s decision in accordance with the company’s disciplinary policy and procedures.
Lelly Usiku will remain in place as interim CEO until a permanent appointment is made.
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