26 Sep 2018 | 12:46 PM UTC
Namibia: National water company employees threaten to strike
National water company (NamWater) employees threaten to strike in the near future; water shortages likely
Event
Employees of the NamWater (Namibia Water Corporation) national water company have threatened to strike in the near future following failed negotiations with the company's management and board of directors. It remains unclear when the strike would start. However, if it goes ahead major water disruptions should be expected across the country as employees have threatened to shut off water provisions.
Context
NamWater employees are denouncing, among other things, the company's failure to adhere to human resources policies as well as recurrent delays in the payment of salaries.
A related peaceful demonstration was held on August 31, where NamWater employees submitted their petition to management, giving them 14 days to respond.
Advice
Individuals in Namibia are advised to monitor the situation, be prepared for water cuts (stock up on bottled water), limit water usage (including flushing toilets), and adhere to any instructions issued by the local authorities.