The Namibia Media Professionals Union (Nampu), a new union of local journalists and media practitioners, was launched in Windhoek on Friday.

The union’s main priority is to organise and unite local journalists and media workers operating in print, broadcasting and online mediums, to allow for better bargaining and improved working conditions. 
Nampu will also represent its members in labour matters and negotiate with employers on behalf of members. 
It will strive to improve the working conditions of its members to a level that their rights as human beings and professionals are maintained as stipulated in the Labour Act and other legislation.

The leadership of Nampu consists of the secretary general, Sakeus Iikela, deputy secretary general Jemima Beukes, the secretary for information and mobilisation Charmaine Ngatjiheue, treasurer Timo Shihepo, and organiser Augetto Graig. 
The executive also consists of four additional members, Tileni Mongudhi, Edward Muumbu, Esther Mbathera and Tuyeimo Haidula.

Iikela, a journalist at The Namibian newspaper, noted: “The idea of forming a journalist’s union was conceived decades ago and several attempts were made to form the union but it never materialised. The union is constituted to represent the rights and interests of journalists. Many issues are happening in the media industry that have never been talked about.” 
Nampu’s launch was witnessed by veteran journalist and founder of The Namibian newspaper Gwen Lister. The media ombudsman John Nakuta and Trade Union Congress of Namibia secretary general Mahongora Kavihuha also attended the convention held at the Namibia University of Science and Technology.