Works and transport minister Veikko Nekundi has accused Chinese company China Railway Seventh Group (CRSF) of deploying apartheid era tactics, following a wave of complaints from workers at the Western Bypass Road construction project.
The minister made the remarks after workers employed by the company raised serious allegations of corruption, poor labour practices and unsafe working conditions at the construction site.
Nekundi confirmed that he recently visited the site, where he was met with numerous complaints and what he termed disturbing issues affecting local employees.
In an interview with this publication, the minister said it was unfortunate that the employer was allegedly violating the rights of workers through short-term contracts and unfair labour practices.
“It is sad how the employers are violating the human rights of workers. Locals are working on contracts of less than three months, while others are struggling to get their contracts renewed,” he said.
The minister also directed the company to urgently resolve the matter and ensure that all workers are issued with proper contracts.
“I have received reports that some workers have already signed, while others are yet to sign. If they do not comply with the country’s rules, we will go ahead and blacklist them from doing business,” Nekundi warned.
The remarks come amid growing complaints from workers, who allege they are being forced to pay money to secure employment opportunities and renew contracts at the company.
Several workers who spoke to New Era claimed that employees are allegedly placed on contracts lasting no more than three months, creating uncertainty and exposing them to exploitation.
A senior worker at the company, Josef Nghinyengwashe, alleged that he paid N$2 000 to secure his position before joining the company.
“I am no longer happy because every now and then we are expected to pay to ensure our positions are secured. Because if you don’t have money, you have little to no chance of getting your job back,” he said.
Another foreman, Melendu Mathew, also alleged that he paid N$3 000 to an alleged middleman believed to be handling the payments. Workers further claimed that more than 20 employees allegedly made similar payments and showed this publication a list containing names of individuals who allegedly paid money in exchange for employment or contract renewals.
Apart from the alleged corruption, workers also raised concerns over safety conditions at the site, saying some equipment is worn out and no longer safe for operation.
At the time of publication, efforts to obtain comment from the project manager and the human resources department were unsuccessful, as company representatives repeatedly stated that management was in a meeting.
Photo: Heather Erdmann