Windhoek: Employees of the City of Windhoek's (CoW) Solid Waste Management Division embarked on a protected strike on Thursday, demanding better remuneration and benefits. The employees, who are on fixed-term contracts and are responsible for litter picking, street sweeping, and general cleaning services across the city, are demanding an increase in their current salaries from N.dollars 3,300 to N.dollars 8,000.

According to Namibia Press Agency, the spokesperson for the group, John Paporo, stated that the workers are calling for city management to engage directly in negotiations. Paporo emphasized the need for an amicable solution and mentioned that the group is waiting at China Town for the chief executive officer and the negotiating committee to respond.

Paporo further noted that approximately 511 workers are part of the strike, with over 200 employees gathered at various points in the city on Thursday morning, while others were stationed in town awaiting a response from management. The CoW, in a media statement, confirmed that the strike follows a dispute over remuneration and benefit demands and has been declared lawful, proceeding under agreed rules of picketing and conduct.

The City reiterated that the 'no work, no pay' principle will apply during the strike period and that no replacement workers will be hired except where necessary to prevent danger to life, health, or personal safety. Residents are urged to cooperate by disposing of waste responsibly and avoiding illegal dumping as contingency measures are implemented to minimize disruptions to essential cleaning services.

The City of Windhoek expressed its commitment to engaging the workers and relevant labor representatives in good faith to reach an amicable resolution.