President Nangolo Mbumba on International Workers Day

1 May 2024

On this International Workers Day, we celebrate the tireless efforts and contributions of workers across our nation and around the world. This year’s theme, ‘Social Justice and Decent Work for All’, is a call to action and reminds us of the importance of creating a fair, inclusive, and equitable society where every individual has access to dignified work and a decent standard of living.

It is undeniable that social justice and decent work are not mere ideals, but rather essential rights that should be granted to every individual. It is crucial that we put in relentless effort to create a society that values, safeguards, and provides equitable pay, secure working environments, and chances for individual and career development for every worker. 

Through our commitment to social justice and creating opportunities for decent work, we are building a society that is fair and inclusive, allowing all Namibians to flourish.

On this occasion, we celebrate the Namibian labour movement’s significant role in shaping our struggle for independence and social justice, and we take a moment to reflect on the progress and challenges that persist in labour rights.

Trade unions emerged as key players in the struggle, rallying workers and advocating for improved working conditions, fair wages, and the right to organise. In the face of adversity, trade unions became the voice of the marginalised, tirelessly advocating for justice and fairness in workplaces across the country. Their unwavering resilience not only shaped the labour landscape but also laid the foundation for a more equitable society.

Namibia’s commitment to upholding labour rights is a cornerstone of its democratic principles and social justice. Recognising the inherent dignity and value of all workers, Namibia has enshrined labour rights protections within its Constitution. The government has taken deliberate steps to safeguard these rights and protect worker welfare across all sectors by enacting robust laws and policies.

However, despite the strides made thus far, the country, particularly the labour fraternity, is still confronted by challenges. These include unemployment disproportionately affecting youth, inflation affecting workers’ livelihoods, informal employment, and job insecurity. 

As the nation continues its journey towards sustainable development and prosperity, I implore all stakeholders to direct their efforts towards ensuring the full realisation of labour rights. We must intensify our efforts to foster an environment that treats every worker with dignity, respect, and fairness.

As we look towards the future, let us envision a society where every worker’s rights are protected, where labour is valued and rewarded fairly, and where prosperity is shared by all. Together, let us build a brighter, more inclusive future for generations to come.

Happy Workers Day to all Namibian workers! 

Your dedication, resilience, and hard work are the foundation of our country’s strength and prosperity.