OTJIWARONGO – Truck drivers employed by Ekundi Farming and Transport at Otjiwarongo on Monday embarked on a strike, demanding a salary increase of 6% and a food allowance.

Shop steward Hendrick Haufiku in an interview on Monday said the strike is guided by the Namibia Revolutionary Transport Union (NARETU), and seven of the nine truck drivers employed by the company are on strike.

Ekundi trucks largely transport cement in bulk, as well other cement products, between the Ohorongo Cement factory near Otavi and Swakopmund in the Erongo region.

“For the past 12 years we have operated on empty stomachs since there is no travelling or food allowance at the company and this is the bone of contention for this strike,” said Haufiku.

He said the truck drivers are also demanding improved medical aid and a cellphone allowance in case trucks break down on the road.

Ekundi owner Gunter Kahl in a telephonic interview said the company has met all demands by the truck drivers, but cannot afford to pay them a food allowance as well.

“On all other demands we have agreed,” said Kahl.

He explained that the truck drivers earn between N$18 000 and N$25 000 as basic salaries, excluding overtime payments, which for him is a decent salary.

He further said the disgruntled truck drivers rarely spend the night away from home and it is therefore unfair for them to demand a food allowance.

NARETU commander-in-chief, Petersen Kambinda on his part said the strike is legal and would continue until the workers’ demands are met.

-Nampa