No formal discussions to mitigate retrenchment – TransNamib

Executive spokesperson at TransNamib Holdings, Struggle Ihuhua, said that there has been no formal discussions or proposals to mitigate a retrenchment, in response to questions posed to the rail operator by the Economist. Said Ihuhua “We are in the turnaround process to transform TransNamib into a self-sustainable and profitable business; and this is what we are ultimately looking forward to.” “However, we also acknowledge that there are a number of intermediary milestones in our turnaround process and we look forward to the attainment of each and every one of these milestones,” he added. Last year, TransNamib launched their 180 day turnaround strategy, which includes, amongst other things, general electric locomotive refurbishments and the restructuring of nearly 1000 employees in its non-core business units.

The company’s core units are described as those that provide transportation services, as well as promote and develop its immovable portfolio, such as buildings and similar infrastructure. Ihuhua said that all of the company’s operations that are not in compliance with such a mandate and its support services are regarded as non-core business units. When asked which businesses or unions would be handling employees from those units, he stated that the National Allied Transport Worker’s Union (Natawu) is recognised as the exclusive bargaining agent for all the bargaining units within TransNamib. “Having said this, we would like to make it clear that TransNamib has not initiated any legal processes that would require engagement and representation of employees as a bargaining unit by any [other] union or any other party for that matter,” said Ihuhua. He stated that at the moment, they are not at liberty to specify any further details regarding these units but that negotiations, amongst other issues, will be dealt with.