The Oshakati Eloolo Abattoir, which was reopened at the end of last year, after four years of standing idle, is closed again.

The reopening of the abattoir was a result of a joint venture between Namibian and Chinese-owned companies. 

The partners are KIAT Investments Holding (Pty) Ltd and Chinese company Ningbo Agriculture Investment Group (Pty).

The Oshakati abattoir was renovated by government, through the ministry of agriculture, at a cost of N$10 million.

According to executive director of KIAT Investment Holding Sikunawa Negumbo, the abattoir has been closed due to financial difficulties.

“Our water and power were cut off. There is no production. Ningbo has been making empty promises ever since. They promised a phased investment of N$200 million. They keep lying,” stressed Negumbo. 

Negumbo added they at least need more than N$60 million to reopen the abattoir, and that their company is now negotiating with other investors, although they have been knocking on several doors but they did not get any help.

He further said if the Chinese company is not coming up with any solution, they would soon divorce.

 “So far, we have sent more than 70 employees home, because there is no work,” he said.

“The retrenchment letters given to workers by the Ningbo were illegal.  There is no board resolution authorising such retrenchment. All workers will return to work as soon as the funding is secured.”

Attempts to obtain comment from Ningbo Agriculture Investment Group proved futile.

- vkaapanda@nepc.com.na