Justicia Shipena
Mineworkers will soon benefit from a new Retirement Incentive Benefit, set to take effect on 1 August 2025.
The Mineworkers Union of Namibia (MUN) announced the initiative during its second regional roundtable discussion in Oranjemund, ǁKaras Region.
The benefit will be available to members who are at least 60 years old and have been with MUN for a minimum of five years.
MUN general secretary George Ampweya said the initiative fulfils a resolution passed at the 2010 Congress and is part of the union’s efforts to recognise long-serving members.
The roundtable brought together union leaders, members, and experts from various sectors to address workers’ challenges in the country’s mining and related industries.
MUN acting president Poco-Key Mberiuana emphasised the importance of engaging with members to understand their concerns.
“With close to 10,000 members, it is vital that we come closer to our members and see the issues they face in their daily lives,” he said.
ǁKaras regional chairperson Allen Kalumbu expressed his enthusiasm for hosting the roundtable, emphasising the significance of giving members a voice.
He also urged Natangwe Ithete, the minister of industry, mines, and energy, to engage directly with workers in the region to ensure their concerns are addressed at the highest government levels.
The event also saw the launch of the MUN member benefits app in partnership with myGateway. The platform provides access to discounts at selected retailers.
During the roundtable, MUN leadership engaged in open-floor sessions and discussions on key issues affecting members.
Topics included ongoing initiatives and updates on programs designed to improve workers’ livelihoods.
MUN assistant general secretary Paulus Situmba shared details about Namit Trust’s funeral cover benefits, which offers up to N$10 000 to a member’s family in the event of death.
Members of the southern region welcomed the opportunity to engage with the leadership.
The branch information and publicity officer at Rosh Pinah Zinc Mine, Martin Mareka, praised MUN’s commitment to directly addressing members’ concerns.
Gabriel Abraham, education coordinator at NAMDED, emphasised the importance of the union as the “voice of the voiceless,” dedicated to securing equitable benefits for all workers.
Ezegiel Tjirare, a long-serving member, found the event motivating and enlightening, especially for those who may not fully understand the responsibilities of union leadership.
