IMELDA AMBONMDO
The Parliamentary Standing Committee on Poverty Eradication, Labour, and Industrial Relations has raised concern about incidences of unfair labour practices in the Namibian mining industry.
Speaking at a public dialogue on advancing decent jobs in the mining industry this week, Chairperson of the committee, Justina Jonas, has raised concern over mining companies ill-treating Namibian workers.
She said some mining companies are underpaying part time staff and compromising conditions of service for permanent workers.
“The mining sector remains a cornerstone of our national economy, contributing significantly to GDP, government revenue, and employment. Yet, recent oversight by the Committee has highlighted concerning practices that threaten the welfare of workers and the communities in which these mines operate. Issues such as widespread retrenchments, outsourcing, unequal
treatment of subcontracted employees, inadequate occupational health and safety measures, and inconsistent skills transfer demand our attention and action,” Jonas said.
Jonas said continued dialogue between the industry and policy makers is essential in improving the lives of many workers in the industry.
“Issues such as widespread retrenchments, outsourcing, unequal treatment of subcontracted employees, inadequate occupational health and safety measures, and inconsistent skills transfer demand our attention and action,” she said.
She added that, “Our goal today is to share the Committee’s findings, listen to your views, and collectively discuss practical solutions to ensure that the mining sector is not only driving economic growth, but also advancing decent work, community welfare, and national development.”
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