Namibia Dairies, a subsidiary of the Ohlthaver & List (O&L) Group, announced the successful conclusion of wage negotiations with the Namibia Food and Allied Workers Union (Nafau). This agreement, covering 1 July 2024 to 30 June 2025, applies to all permanent employees within the bargaining unit. 

Despite challenging economic and financial conditions, Namibia Dairies and Nafau approached the negotiations with a shared focus on ensuring business sustainability and safeguarding employee livelihoods.

 The key objective was to align compensation strategies with the company’s Vision 2029 goals, fostering a supportive work environment while securing a sustainable and profitable future for Namibia Dairies. 

Wynand Oosthuizen, acting managing director of Namibia Dairies, praised the outcome, stating: “This agreement exemplifies our commitment to our employees and our vision for 2029. We are proud to have achieved a balanced and forward-looking solution that will drive both employee satisfaction and the long-term stability of our business. The agreement includes wage adjustments designed to ensure fair and competitive compensation. These increases will play a pivotal role in enhancing the financial well-being of our employees”.

The negotiations, which spanned several weeks, were marked by collaboration, a dedication to transparency and an ongoing commitment to the O&L persona values of being authentic, caring and passionate. 

Both parties acknowledged the importance of reaching a solution that supports Namibia Dairies’ long-term financial targets and the Vision 2029 goals.  Reflecting on the challenges faced during the negotiations, Tuyeni Michael, a Nafau representative, expressed satisfaction with the final agreement: “We are proud to have reached a mutually beneficial agreement that ensures the stability and growth of our company, while also enhancing the financial security of our members”. 

“The successful conclusion of these negotiations strengthens Namibia Dairies’ continued position as an employer of choice, reflecting its ambition to be ranked among the Global Top 10 in the Great Place to Work (GPTW) survey. The agreement also reflects the company’s commitment to upholding its O&L persona, ensuring that authenticity, care and passion remain central to the business ethos,” a company statement reads. 

Namibia Dairies further stated that as it moves forward into the new financial year, continuous assessment of the impact on both employee satisfaction and company performance will remain a priority. 

“This wage agreement not only enhances the financial stability of employees but also aligns with Namibia Dairies’ broader goals of profitability and sustainability. It is a testament to the strength of the company’s values, and its ongoing dedication to fostering a positive and motivating work environment for all,” the company stated.