New minimum wage kicks in

By: STAFF REPORTER

THE Namibia Farmworkers Union (Nafwu) has warned farmers to start adhering to a new minimum wage agreement, warning that it would soon start checking on whether this is being done.

The union called a press conference in Windhoek at the end of last week to remind farmworkers and their employers of the recent implementation of the wage agreement.
Nafwu, the Namibia National Farmers’ Union (NNFU), and the Agricultural Employers’ Association (AEA) agreed on the new minimum wage for the agricultural sector in March, before allowing a 30-day grace period for employers and employees to voice their objections.
“The 30 days have (now) lapsed and no objection was received by the Ministry of Labour. That means that this agreement will be applicable to all employers and employees in this sector,” Nafwu General Secretary Alfred Angula said.
According to the agreement, farmworkers at entry level should now be receiving a minimum salary of N$2.87 per hour, or N$560 per month.
Workers who live on farms are also entitled to a N$300 minimum food allowance or ration benefit.
“We’re extending a serious warning to all employers not to dismiss workers because of this agreement. All those who intend to do so must be warned that the union will deal with them appropriately,” Angula said.
Angula said the new wages were determined after considering the needs of workers and their dependents, while at the same time looking at the capacity of their employers to pay.

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