MUN raises alarm over retrenchments in diamond industry

The Mineworkers Union of Namibia (MUN) held an engagement with the minister of mines, energy and industry, Modestus Amutse, in which critical issues affecting the diamond cutting and polishing sector, as well as the broader mining and extractive industries, were tabled for urgent consideration.

The union delegation was led by Acting President, Cde Poco-key Mathew Mberiuana, accompanied by general secretary, George Ampweya, together with representatives of the National Executive Committee from the Central Region.

The engagement focused on alarming developments within the diamond cutting and polishing sector, particularly the recent retrenchments at Almond Diamonds and Dash Diamonds, the growing prevalence of precarious employment conditions, and the urgent need for policy and regulatory reforms. The MUN further raised concerns regarding the stagnation of the Diamond Bill, including provisions that undermine due process and worker protections.

"We welcomed the opportunity to present our position and reiterate the importance of recognising the Mineworkers Union as a strategic partner in shaping the future of Namibia's mining and related sectors. Central to our submission is the call for institutionalised tripartite engagement, trade union-inclusive licensing frameworks, and ministerial oversight in sightholder allocation to safeguard employment and sustain beneficiation," Ampweya said.

Amutse raised concerns over the sightholder status of diamond cutting and polishing companies and committed to initiating a site visit of the operations in the coming week. He also welcomed the union's proposal to work closely with his ministry to address challenges in the sector.