The government is facilitating the re-employment of 222 former Walu Fishing workers through a redress programme involving four companies following a protracted labour dispute.
The companies will participate in the government employment redress programme (Gerp) initiative.
Walu Fishing did not get a fishing quota for the 2026 fishing season after it was involved in disputes with workers, as well as the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, Water, and Land Reform.
Fisheries minister Inge Zaamwani-Kamwi and the minister of justice and labour relations Wise Immanuel last weekend held a meeting with the former employees and companies participating in the Gerp initiative.
They reiterated that resolving both the historical and ongoing grievances of the affected workers remains a priority for the government.
“Each company will be granted an employment redress quota aligning with the number of workers they employ in support of job creation measures by the government,” says a joint statement issued by agriculture ministry spokesperson Romeo Muyunda.
The two ministers say the government is committed to seeing workers treated to fair, transparent, accountable and active employment practices in the fishing sector.
Walu Fishing Company (Pty) Ltd was embroiled in a dispute with the fisheries ministry late last year over 223 employees’ unpaid salaries, and the alleged failure to meet employment agreements.
Both ministers highlight the government’s resolve to ensure the equitable distribution of marine resources and say any exploitation of workers will not be tolerated.
Immanuel warns companies against engaging in unfair dismissals and inappropriate labour practices, and urges them to communicate proactively with dissatisfied workers before terminating employment contracts.
“Equally, employees must adhere to the terms and conditions of their employment contracts, and ensure they understand their obligations to the company before signing their contracts,” he says.
The ministries will submit a joint report of the meeting to the Cabinet regarding the GERP, including recommendations to address issues within the programme.
“This initiative reflects the government’s continued commitment to safeguarding existing employment and fostering additional job opportunities within the fishing sector,” the statement reads.
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