Otjozondjupa Governor, James Uerikua, is concerned about the protracted labour unrest at the Cheetah Cement Factory on the outskirts of Otjiwarongo.

Uerikua says the situation needs to be sorted out soonest, urging all parties to sit around the table and find an amicable solution.  

Uerikua called for an emergency meeting on Monday involving all parties in the hope of coming up with workable solutions to end the strike.

The governor and the Regional Council's Chairperson, Maureen Mbakera, sympathised with the employees who have been without an income since the "No work, No pay" rule strike started in July.

"The burden set on your shoulders economically is becoming heavier and heavier day by day. You cannot pay your rent, you cannot pay for your vehicles, and you cannot feed your families because of the strike. So, all options are on the table and supreme to all is to get you back to work at the mine to continue your employment while negotiations are continuing. While this is ongoing, at least you can have something that will keep you up and running. But it's also up to yourselves as to what you prefer," he advised the workers.

Uerikua acknowledged challenges, including staff safety and health-related matters, as focal points for discussions to provide a clear understanding of the future.

The Mine Workers Union of Namibian Branch Chairperson, Naftal Nghipitwako, hailed the regional leadership for their intervention, hoping that the parties would reach a consensus. Nghipitwako further alleged that Chinese nationals have been brought in to take over the jobs of the striking employees.