MUN disburses N$800 000 in SME funding
The Mineworkers Union of Namibia (MUN) has disbursed more than N$800 000 to member-led small businesses through its Namit SME fund, signalling a strategic shift toward economic empowerment as a core union function.
The fund was a central focus of the union's Western Regional Roundtable held in Swakopmund on Wednesday.
The engagement, part of a national series, brought together union leadership and grassroots members to exchange views, address worker concerns and promote awareness of the union’s broader socioeconomic initiatives.
Established in 2024, the Namit SME fund supports entrepreneurial ventures by current and former members. A total of 54 applications have been received to date, with MUN officials confirming that uptake continues to grow as more members seek support beyond traditional industrial matters.
Niklaas Afrikaner, MUN's Western regional chairperson, said the union must adapt to support its members across all stages of life.
“Some still believe the union is only there during strikes or salary negotiations. That narrative must change. Empowering members economically is part of our broader mission," he said.
Resilient members
Rebekka Bengela, MUN’s national secretary, said the fund reflects the union’s intent to build an informed and economically resilient membership.
“Our aim is to reinforce the relationship between leadership and membership and build a more engaged base – one that actively shapes its own future,” she said.
Acting president Poco-Key Mberiuana reiterated that the roundtables are designed to strengthen two-way communication.
“These roundtables are not just information sessions. They are conversations. We listen. We learn. We act. 'Each One Teach One' is how we need to lead,” he said.
Talking with each other
Members expressed support for the fund and the roundtable format.
“Being heard in this way gives me hope,” said Theopolina Fanuel Carbon, a MUN member. “It was empowering to voice concerns and propose solutions. I look forward to seeing the changes that come from these conversations.”
Rauna Namolo Osino added: “Dialogue must lead to action. If workers’ voices are heard but not acted on, then we’re simply talking in circles. Let’s make roundtables a bridge to impact, not just conversations.”
The union also announced its upcoming MUN national games, scheduled for March 2026. The initiative is aimed at promoting well-being, social cohesion and work-life balance through structured sports competitions including netball, volleyball, tug-of-war and distance running.
MUN says its current focus on economic empowerment, wellness and active dialogue underscores its evolving role as more than a bargaining agent, but a long-term partner in members’ personal and professional advancement.
The fund was a central focus of the union's Western Regional Roundtable held in Swakopmund on Wednesday.
The engagement, part of a national series, brought together union leadership and grassroots members to exchange views, address worker concerns and promote awareness of the union’s broader socioeconomic initiatives.
Established in 2024, the Namit SME fund supports entrepreneurial ventures by current and former members. A total of 54 applications have been received to date, with MUN officials confirming that uptake continues to grow as more members seek support beyond traditional industrial matters.
Niklaas Afrikaner, MUN's Western regional chairperson, said the union must adapt to support its members across all stages of life.
“Some still believe the union is only there during strikes or salary negotiations. That narrative must change. Empowering members economically is part of our broader mission," he said.
Resilient members
Rebekka Bengela, MUN’s national secretary, said the fund reflects the union’s intent to build an informed and economically resilient membership.
“Our aim is to reinforce the relationship between leadership and membership and build a more engaged base – one that actively shapes its own future,” she said.
Acting president Poco-Key Mberiuana reiterated that the roundtables are designed to strengthen two-way communication.
“These roundtables are not just information sessions. They are conversations. We listen. We learn. We act. 'Each One Teach One' is how we need to lead,” he said.
Talking with each other
Members expressed support for the fund and the roundtable format.
“Being heard in this way gives me hope,” said Theopolina Fanuel Carbon, a MUN member. “It was empowering to voice concerns and propose solutions. I look forward to seeing the changes that come from these conversations.”
Rauna Namolo Osino added: “Dialogue must lead to action. If workers’ voices are heard but not acted on, then we’re simply talking in circles. Let’s make roundtables a bridge to impact, not just conversations.”
The union also announced its upcoming MUN national games, scheduled for March 2026. The initiative is aimed at promoting well-being, social cohesion and work-life balance through structured sports competitions including netball, volleyball, tug-of-war and distance running.
MUN says its current focus on economic empowerment, wellness and active dialogue underscores its evolving role as more than a bargaining agent, but a long-term partner in members’ personal and professional advancement.
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