A group of fishermen who camp at the Kuisebmond stadium has announced that more than 800 workers will not participate in a planned walking protest from Walvis Bay to Windhoek.

Known as the Okapare fishermen, this group has distanced itself from a statement made by the Mining, Metal, Maritime, and Construction Workers 

Union (MMMC). The union's leader indicated on Sunday that fishermen would march from the coast to the capital, with the time and date to be confirmed by the president.

Earlier this month, the union held a meeting with various groups of fishermen, including the Okapare fishermen, where it was decided that the protest would aim to compel the government to address their 

concerns. The meeting in Walvis Bay discussed the challenges workers face under the Government Employment Redress Programme and other related issues.

In response, the ministries of Justice, Labour Relations, and Agriculture, Fisheries, Water, and Land Reform held a high-level meeting on Friday to address these issues and prevent the 

protest. Minister Inge Zaamwani informed NBC News that she met directly with all affected employees and employers on Friday, although union representatives were not included in the discussions.

The minister explained that the meeting allowed both sides to present their perspectives and establish the facts.

 She noted that negotiations are still ongoing.

Godfried Kahunga, Chairperson of the Okapare fishermen, confirmed the minister's statements and mentioned that a date for the next meeting will be announced soon. 

This is one of the reasons the Okapare fishermen have distanced themselves from the MMMC-planned protest from the coast to Windhoek.

Kahunga added that the Okapare fishermen, who are not currently employed, receive a N$ 4,000 allowance under the redress programme.

 However, they are hopeful for physical employment on vessels in the future.