Minister in dark about NWR strife

Both environment minister Pohamba Shifeta and his deputy, Tommy Nambahu, remain in the dark about a planned strike by Namibia Wildlife Resorts (NWR) workers which was put on hold at the eleventh hour.
The parastatal announced yesterday the strike was averted and wage talks with the union would continue.
According to NWR spokesperson Mufaro Nesongano a letter was sent to Shifeta’s office in regard to the matter, but the minister told Namibian Sun that he was unaware of this state of affairs.
“I am not sure when the letter was sent, but I can confirm a letter has been sent to his office,” said Nesongano.
According to NWR managing director Zelna Hengari the parastatal told the Namibian Public Workers Union (Napwu) on 18 February this year that the company would not be able to meet workers’ demands because of its financial situation.
The deadlock came as a result of Napwu’s demand for a 15% salary raise for category A and B workers and 12% for category C and D workers.
The union also demanded a 50% increase in housing allowances for category A and B workers, a 45% hike for category C and D workers and a monthly “bush” hardship allowance of N$500.
Hengari yesterday said that NWR paid its employees fair and competitive salaries compared to its competition.
She also pointed out that NWR workers receive free housing, plus housing allowances, free water and electricity as well as free transport and food in some instances.
“We wish to assure our stakeholders and clients that during this time, we are open for business and the safety and well-being of our guests is our paramount concern. We shall be pulling out all stops to offer you a hospitable service and welcome,” said Hengari.
Hengari declined to comment on the anticipated financial implication should there be a strike.
The CEO of the Hospitality Association of Namibia, Gitta Paetzold, said although NWR’s image would take a knock it might not necessarily suffer severe financial implications because the peak season for international tourists only begins in mid-July.
“I would really want to think NWR would have contingency plans in place that would help it go through this,” said Paetzold.
Economist Namene Kalili also believes that a strike would damage the parastatal’s image.
“The strike may dent the excellent image the Namibia Tourism Board (NTB) and the tourism industry has built up over the years. Currently, the tourism sector has managed to improve its performance during the first quarter by two to five percent and it is imperative this growth is carried forward in order to soften the blows from the strong economic headwinds,” he
said.
He added that with consumers under pressure and the country facing weaker commodity prices, drought and rising inflation and interest rates, social unrest is not unexpected.
“With tourism playing such a vital role in our economy, it is hoped that a mutually beneficial solution could be negotiated without diminishing returns to the sector,” said Kalili.
JEMIMA BEUKES