After an arduous two-year period of negotiations and unresolved conflict, Hangana Abalone (Pty) Ltd and the Namibian Food and Allied Workers Union (NAFAU) have come to a historic resolution. The hard-fought agreement, signed on 23 August 2023, marks a significant turning point in the relationship between the duo.
The dispute, which stemmed from wage-related concerns, had reached an impasse, and was referred to the Office of the Labour Commissioner for intervention. However, due to various complexities and circumstances beyond the control of both Hangana Abalone and NAFAU, the resolution remained elusive.
This two-year journey came to a positive culmination, as both parties found common ground and a shared commitment to the well-being of the workers and the sustenance of the company. The signed agreement entails a 13% basic wage increase for the financial years 2023-2024.
“The once-off back-pay of N$2765 per employee, for the period 01 July 2022 to 30 June 2023, acknowledges the dedication of the employees even during the negotiation period,” read a company statement.
“We are proud to have reached this agreement without external mediation, demonstrating our mutual dedication to finding a win-win solution,” stated Jacob Penda, NAFAU secretary general. “This experience serves as a lesson for us all, underlining the importance of early and productive dialogue to prevent future disputes. Our collective success is intertwined, and we must uphold our responsibilities as employees while fostering the growth of the company.”
This sentiment was echoed by Herman Theron, managing director of Hangana Abalone. “The conclusion of these wage negotiations is a testament to our commitment to our workforce. We recognise that our employees are the heart of our success, and without them, we would not be the Namibian quality product we aspire to be. This process has reinforced the significance of building trust-based relationships between the business and our valued employees”, he remarked.
The agreement aligns with Hangana Abalone’s overarching purpose of “Creating a future, enhancing life,” and exemplifies the organisation’s dedication to responsible corporate citizenship. The company remains steadfast in its mission to secure the livelihoods of Namibians, and promote sustainability through meaningful stakeholder engagements.
As both parties look ahead, there is a shared determination to focus on sustainable growth and collaboration. “We now shift our focus to building a stronger, more sustainable business. This agreement is a pivotal step in our journey to create a thriving future for both Hangana Abalone and our dedicated workforce”, Theron affirmed.
Photo: Wage
Caption: Historic resolution… From left: Shikonjeleni Heita (Manager: Employee Relations, Ohlthaver & List), Jacob Penda (NAFAU Secretary General) and Dudley Fourie (Group Manager: Employee Relations, Ohlthaver & List), accepting the agreement after two years of negotiations. Photo: Contributed