The 28-day strike at Gendev Fishing (Pty) Ltd has officially come to an end following the signing of a wage agreement and other conditions of employment between the company and its employees.
The agreement, which takes effect from 1 August 2026 and remains in force until 31 December 2027, introduces improved wages and a range of benefits aimed at strengthening the working conditions and financial security of employees.
Speaking at the signing ceremony, Namibia Seamen and Allied Workers Union (NASAWU) president Paulus Hango thanked the workers, management and all parties involved for reaching an agreement through negotiations and dialogue.
Hango acknowledged that the negotiations were not always easy, but said the parties had ultimately managed to resolve their differences through engagement and compromise. “This signing marks an important step towards bringing an end to the strike and restoring normal operations,” he said.
Under the agreement, the basic salary for general workers will increase to N$6,060 per month, calculated on the basis of 195 ordinary working hours. Employees will also receive a N$1 000 housing allowance and a N$910 transport allowance.
Workers will further receive an annual bonus equivalent to 50% of their basic salary in December, while additional allowances will apply to employees working in cold environments and certain specialised areas.
The company has also agreed to provide transport for employees, with one bus operating during the day and two buses at night. The arrangement is intended to improve workers’ safety when travelling between work and home.
Employees will receive long-service awards based on their years of service, while Gendev Fishing will provide appropriate protective clothing and safety equipment according to the nature of each employee’s work.
Another provision of the agreement will see workers receiving 10 kilograms of first-grade horse mackerel three times a year.
The agreement also addresses periods when production is interrupted. Workers will receive 100% of their basic salary for up to two months when there is no work. Thereafter, a reduced payment of 70% may apply for up to three months in a year in circumstances such as prolonged mechanical breakdowns or factory maintenance.
Hango urged employees to return to work with renewed commitment and discipline, stressing that productivity would be essential to the company’s future and the security of workers’ jobs.
He also called on management to continue respecting workers’ rights and dignity and to maintain meaningful engagement with the union on matters affecting employees. “I encourage you to return to work with renewed commitment, discipline and determination.
Let us work hard, improve productivity and contribute positively to the success of Gendev Fishing,” Hango said.
He thanked workers for their unity, patience and commitment throughout the dispute, while also recognising management and other stakeholders who contributed to reaching the agreement.
The conclusion of the strike is expected to restore stability at Gendev Fishing after nearly four weeks of industrial action. Both workers and management have been urged to put the dispute behind them and focus on rebuilding their working relationship, improving productivity and ensuring the company’s continued contribution to the local economy.
By Rudi Bowe
