August 26 Manufacturing secures wage boost for workers

Over 200 employees of August Twenty-Six Manufacturing are set to benefit from higher wages and improved job security after the Namibia Food and Allied Workers Union (Nafau) and company management signed a landmark memorandum of agreement in Windhoek last week.

The deal follows wage negotiations that began in December 2025 and comes amid mounting economic pressures and rising living costs.

Under the agreement, employees within the bargaining unit will receive an across-the-board increase of N$600, divided equally between salary, housing and transport allowances. After the adjustment, the transport allowance will total N$800, effective 1 March, for the 2026–2027 financial year.

The agreement also addresses job security, confirming that all temporary employees engaged between 2022 and 2023 will be appointed on a permanent basis effective 1 May.

Temporary employees employed during 2024 and 2025 will be considered for permanent employment in the 2027 financial year.

Deputy general secretary of Nafau, Absalom Vellem, and managing director of August Twenty-Six Manufacturing, Alpha Nekomba, signed the agreement in a ceremony attended by employees and union representatives, marking a significant step toward improved staff welfare.

Employee representative Martha Amadhila expressed gratitude to management for listening to staff concerns and keeping promises throughout the negotiation process.

Despite high inflation and economic challenges, both Nafau and August Twenty-Six management said the negotiations were conducted constructively, balancing employee well-being with the long-term sustainability of the business.

[email protected]