Hertta-Maria Amutenja
Labour unions, media advocates, and stakeholders widely celebrate the Namibia Media Professionals Union’s (NAMPU) official trade union registration as a significant step towards strengthening workers’ rights in Namibia’s media industry.
NAMPU received its certificate of recognition from the Office of the Labour Commissioner on Monday, 16 December 2024, after a four-year campaign for formal recognition.
The media ombudsman, John Nakuta, hailed the development as a landmark moment for media workers.
“It is really good news to hear that NAMPU has finally been registered officially as one of the many trade unions in the country. For that reason, I wish to congratulate those who relentlessly pursued the idea and cause of getting the union registered,” Nakuta said.
He underscored the importance of NAMPU in advancing the rights of journalists.
“The registration lays the foundation for NAMPU to collectively bargain for better working conditions for media workers in Namibia. However, to acquire exclusive bargaining agency status, NAMPU must prove that it represents the majority of media workers in the industry. I call on media workers to join NAMPU in their big numbers to strengthen its voice,” Nakuta added.
The acting secretary general of NAMPU, Jemima Beukes, expressed gratitude for the support and acknowledged the challenges ahead.
“This union is the protection of the fourth estate, born out of the hard work and contributions of every single journalist who subscribes to its necessity. Together, we’ve built a foundation to defend our rights, but the journey ahead requires all of us to stand united,” Beukes said.
The Mineworkers Union of Namibia (MUN) also welcomed NAMPU’s registration.
“Your dedication to ensuring that media professionals have a collective voice and fair representation is both commendable and inspiring. This recognition affirms the legitimacy of your union and ushers in a new era of strong advocacy for your rights and interests,” said MUN general secretary George Ampweya in a congratulatory letter.
Petersen Kambinda of the Namibian Revolutionary Transport Union (NARETU) echoed similar sentiments, emphasizing the collective strength of organised labour.
“The establishment of NAMPU as a formal union signifies a commitment to advocating for the rights, safety, and welfare of journalists. Solidarity is your strength,” Kambinda said.
The Namibia Media Trust (NMT) also applauded the milestone.
“Congratulations to Namibian journalists on the registration of your new union. We were very happy to participate in the launch over four years ago and look forward to the work of this important player in promoting and defending the rights of Namibian journalists,” the trust posted on its X account.
Presidential spokesperson Alfredo Hengari reaffirmed the government’s commitment to press freedom.
“The creation of a trade union for journalists is consistent with the laws of our land and is a step in the right direction for a professional press corps that will report based on the Ethics and Code of Conduct for Namibian media,” Hengari said.
NAMPU’s leadership includes secretary general, Sakeus Iikela, deputy secretary general, Jemima Beukes, information and mobilization secretary, Charmaine Ngatjiheue, treasurer, Timo Shihepo, and organizer, Augetto Graig.
Additional members Tileni Mongudhi, Edward Mumbuu, Esther Mbathera, and Tuyeimo Haidula will support the executive committee.