Sostenus Wilherm
The Namibian Revolutionary Transport and Manufacturing Union (NARETU) will mark its fifth anniversary by shifting focus from traditional celebrations to a worker-focused outreach programme aimed at empowering employees through labour education, health awareness and financial guidance.
The union will host the ‘Naretu @ 5: Members Outreach’ on Saturday, 8 August 2026, at the public open space in front of the Sanlam Centre Building in Windhoek, where workers will have access to free consultations and services from various strategic partners.
Naretu secretary-general Petersen Kambinda said the anniversary represents more than just a milestone for the organisation, but an opportunity to recognise the workers who have contributed to its growth since its establishment in 2021.
“Our fifth anniversary is not just a celebration of how far we have come, but a celebration of the workers who have built this Union,” Kambinda said.
He added that the decision to host an outreach programme was driven by the need to provide workers with practical support and information that could improve their wellbeing and workplace experiences.
“We have chosen to commemorate this milestone by giving back through education, wellness and access to essential services that will empower workers, strengthen workplaces and contribute to a healthier, safer and more informed workforce,” he said.
The event is expected to attract approximately 400 workers and will provide a platform where employees can receive guidance on workplace rights, responsibilities and labour-related matters.
Among the services available will be free labour consultations, health screenings, financial literacy sessions and road safety awareness programmes.
Khomas Medical Fund will provide free basic vital checks and health consultations, while also sharing information on medical aid options available through Khomas Medical Fund, NHP and NMC.
Financial services company Old Mutual Namibia will facilitate financial literacy presentations aimed at improving workers’ understanding of personal financial management.
Road safety and workplace safety awareness will also form part of the programme, with the Motor Vehicle Accident Fund (MVA) and Automobile Association of Namibia (AA Namibia) expected to provide demonstrations on road safety and first aid.
The Namibia Blood Transfusion Service (NamBTS) will also participate by offering free blood group tests while encouraging workers to understand the importance of voluntary blood donation.
Beyond information-sharing, the outreach will include interactive activities such as competitions on workers’ rights and labour-related issues, promotional giveaways, wellness prizes and safety-related rewards.
The first 100 workers attending the event will receive commemorative Naretu @ 5 t-shirts, while selected competition winners will stand a chance to receive a Defensive Driving Course sponsored by AA Namibia.
Since its formation five years ago, Naretu has positioned itself as a representative voice for workers in Namibia’s transport, logistics and manufacturing industries.
The union highlighted its involvement in wage negotiations, labour disputes and advocacy for improved working conditions as part of its contribution to protecting workers’ interests.
One of the major labour disputes associated with Naretu was the 59-day Namib Mills strike, which the union described as the longest strike in independent Namibia’s history.
Kambinda said the anniversary outreach reflects Naretu’s continued commitment to promoting decent work, fair labour practices and stronger relationships between workers and stakeholders.
He added that the event will also provide an opportunity for non-members interested in joining the union to register and learn more about the benefits of collective representation.
