EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW: Landless People’s Movement Condemns NamDeb Housing Policy: A Case of Exploitation

In a recent development concerning housing policies in Oranjemund, Namibia, the Landless People’s Movement (LPM) has voiced its concerns over the actions of NamDeb, a diamond mining company operating in the region. Lifalaza Simataa, a prominent figure within the LPM, has raised alarm over NamDeb’s decision to alter its housing arrangements for employees, shifting from providing accommodation and meals to now mandating employees to seek residency in company-owned flats at their own expense.

The issue surfaced when Councillor Stephanus informed the public on March 19th about NamDeb’s sudden policy change. It was revealed that NamDeb was no longer offering accommodation and food to its employees at the Dabra Hostel, as was initially agreed upon. Instead, the company is now requiring its workers to relocate to flats provided by NamDeb, for which they must pay rent.

According to Simataa, the original understanding between NamDeb and its employees was that accommodation at Dabra Hostel would be provided alongside meals, without any additional charges. However, in what appears to be a profit-driven move, NamDeb has compelled its employees to reside in company flats, thereby placing a financial burden on them.

The crux of the issue lies in the unilateral decision made by NamDeb without prior notice or consultation with its employees. Simataa emphasized the unfairness of this action, particularly considering that there has been no increase in wages to offset the additional expenses now imposed on the workers. Moreover, the sudden alteration of the housing arrangement constitutes a breach of the agreement between NamDeb and its employees.

This incident is not an isolated one, as Simataa pointed out. NamDeb has a history of prioritizing its organizational interests over the welfare of its employees and the local community. The LPM sees this as a systematic pattern of exploitation, wherein NamDeb seizes opportunities to benefit itself at the expense of its workforce and the Namibian nation as a whole.

In response to these grievances, Councillor Stephanus has taken proactive steps by sending a letter to NamDeb, demanding clarification on the decision-making process behind the housing policy change. Furthermore, he has requested an audience with NamDeb to discuss the matter in detail and address the concerns raised by the affected employees.

The LPM stands in solidarity with the impacted workers and vows to advocate for their rights in this matter. Simataa reiterated the LPM’s commitment to holding NamDeb accountable for its actions and ensuring that justice is served for the workers who have been unfairly subjected to this exploitative housing policy.

As the situation unfolds, the LPM remains vigilant in its efforts to safeguard the interests of the marginalized and vulnerable populations in Namibia, standing firm against any form of injustice or exploitation perpetrated by corporate entities like NamDeb.