Namibia: MANWU holds 10th National Congress, women and youth structures constitutionalised

In a world that is constantly changing economically, socially and politically, the BWI-affiliated MANWU stands as a beacon of strength and solidarity for workers in Namibia. This was witnessed during the union’s10^th National Congress held on 13 - 14 September 2024, at Bennies Park, Ongwendiva in Oshana Region.  The Congress was officiated by the Minister of Labour of Namibia, Honourable Uutoni Nuyoma and attended by members of the National Union of Namibian Workers (NUNW) family led by the General Secretary Job Muniaro. International guests from BWI, Industrial, SASK, IFWEA, NUM, IF Metal, and country representatives from Sweden and Finland. A total of 148 delegates with over 50 percent being women and youth attended the successful event. 

The theme, “Members First, Today and Forever,” underscored the union’s unwavering commitment to prioritize the needs and aspirations of its members, ensuring their central place in MANWU’s mission. The Congress served as an opportunity to reflect on past achievements, confront upcoming challenges, and establish a roadmap for a brighter future rooted in collective power and mutual support.

A key resolution passed at the Congress was the constitutionalisation of youth and women structures, a move aimed at enhancing the representation and empowerment of these important sectors within the union. This progressive step aligns with MANWU’s broader goals of inclusivity and strengthening its membership base.

Other significant resolutions included:

• All government projects and tenders must be awarded to local contractors.
• The government must ensure that social protections are included in all project agreements.
• The Labour Resource and Research Institute Namibia (LaRRI) will conduct research on new employment opportunities, skills development, economic growth, and regional development presented by Namibia’s Green Hydrogen Project. This will help local unions under NUNW develop strategies for capacity building, organizing, and negotiations.
• Newly elected shop stewards will have their capacities enhanced to ensure their effectiveness.
• BWI will collaborate with NUNW and the Global Green Hydrogen Network to establish local networks that will facilitate a continuous exchange of experiences and strategies.

MANWU elected new leadership, with three out of the top eight being women. Retaining her seat, Justina Jonas was re-elected as the General Secretary of the union unopposed. 

“May the resolutions adopted at this Congress lead to positive change and progress for MANWU and its members today and forever. Congratulations on a productive and inspiring event,” said BWI Regional Representative Crecentia Mofokeng at the end of the Congress.