Minister of justice and labour relations Wise Immanuel has clarified the timeline for Namibia’s new national minimum wage.
He stresses that while most sectors must comply immediately, for agricultural workers, security guards and domestic employees the N$18 per hour rate will be implemented gradually until 2027.
Speaking during a Cabinet committee briefing at the Government Information Centre on Friday, Immanuel explained that for these workers there will be a phased approach.
“For these three categories, the N$18 per hour must be fully realised and implemented by 1 January 2027. In the meantime, there are interim rates that must be complied with from 1 January 2025 and again from 1 January 2026,” he said.
He noted that compliance monitoring has already intensified, with more than 1 300 workplace inspections conducted this year and 55% of employers found compliant with labour laws. Around 2 100 labour complaints were also resolved, leading to the recovery of N$1.3 million in unpaid wages for affected employees.
He further highlighted progress on ratifying international labour conventions, equity compliance among local employers, and ongoing reforms to improve the efficiency of dispute resolution at the Office of the Labour Commissioner.
On access to justice, the ministry has processed nearly 4 800 legal aid applications this year, with 57% approved, and is introducing an online tracking system for applicants.
The minister concluded by reaffirming the ministry’s commitment to building “a fair, inclusive and resilient labour market” where workers’ rights are safeguarded and employers are held accountable.
– Nampa
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