Truck drivers working for Ekundi Farming and Transport have downed tools after failed negotiations for an increase in allowances. 

The company is offering N$170 a month for food, while the drivers are demanding N$1,100. The workers are also demanding a 100% annual bonus and access to medical aid.

So far, the company and the union agreed to a 6% salary increase.

Ekundi Farming has nine drivers who transport gypsum to Ohorongo from Swakopmund.

In response, the company's owner, Gunther Kahl, said the employees' food allowance demands are not fair as they are at their houses every night. 

On medical aid, Kahl said that although the drivers do not have medical aid, they go to the doctor at his cost. 

He further added that his drivers are among the highest-paid truck drivers, earning between N$18,000 and N$25,000 a month.

Agreeing to the workers' demands, Kahl said, will result in the company's expenses being higher than its income. 

The workers are, however, refuting Kahl's statement, saying that they get paid about N$15,000 per month.

A rule of 'no work, no pay' will apply for the duration of the strike.