Only 67% of Namibian employers compliant with minimum wage

Only two-thirds of Namibian employers are complying with the national minimum wage law, leaving thousands of workers vulnerable to underpayment despite the order taking effect in January this year.



Labour relations minister Wise Immanuel told the National Assembly last Thursday that 67% of inspected businesses were in compliance, but a significant 33% were still violating the law. The figures emerged in response to a query by Swapo MP Justina Jonas on enforcement of the new wage regime.



According to Immanuel, 716 workplaces across the country were inspected since the start of 2025. Of these, 481 were fully compliant, while 235 failed to meet the N$18 per hour minimum wage set by law.



“We are seeing some good progress,” the minister said. “But the 33% non-compliance rate is concerning and needs to be addressed as a matter of urgency.”



Enforcement and penalties



Immanuel revealed that the ministry had issued 69 compliance orders to offending businesses, with the wholesale and retail sector emerging as the biggest culprit, accounting for 42 cases. The security industry followed with 25, while smaller numbers were recorded in construction and hospitality.



The ministry has also recovered more than N$1 million in unpaid wages — N$1,011,709.43 — which has since been returned to affected employees. “These efforts are vital to ensure that workers receive what they are rightfully owed,” Immanuel stressed, reaffirming the government’s commitment to protecting workers’ rights.



Expanding inspections



To intensify enforcement, the ministry has scheduled an additional 1,032 inspections for the current quarter. The focus will shift to sectors such as agriculture, hospitality, and the informal economy, where oversight has traditionally been more challenging and where workers are often most vulnerable.



Immanuel emphasised that improving compliance is not only about cracking down on violators but also about preventing future breaches through education and awareness.



Awareness campaign



The ministry has rolled out extensive public education campaigns to ensure both employers and employees understand the law. Efforts include regional roadshows, participation in trade fairs, and widespread media campaigns on radio, television, and social platforms.



A revived SMS hotline — 66441 — also allows workers to confidentially report cases of wage violations.



“We’ve invested heavily in raising awareness,” Immanuel said. “Our aim is to make sure workers know their rights and employers understand their obligations.”



Towards full compliance



While describing the 67% compliance rate as a “promising start,” Immanuel made it clear that government would not rest until all businesses adhere to the law.



“We must continue to ensure that the remaining 33% of businesses comply,” he said. “Our workers deserve nothing less than fair and just wages.”