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With 75% of the workforce under 35, UNI, SASK and PAM from Finland are supporting NATAU to build union membership and activity in oder to tackle some of the endemic exploitation in the industry. Workers report that violence and intimidation happen regularly and one worker told us that; “We are really suffering in this industry; corporal punishment and physical abuse still exist. If I am to be punished, my employer will take me 20-30 km outside the capital, whereby I have to walk or run back to Windhoek while he is watching me, driving slowly in his van”.



Most of the workers (86%) live in corrugated iron shacks without electricity, water or toilets. Many are unable to form, or keep, relationships as they have to work such long hours. Normal shifts are 12 hours long, but often workers report that no relief comes and they have to work double or triple shifts without a break, or food. Some work for days on end without a break;“I have been on duty since Saturday till today (Wednesday) without going home nor bathing. What my employer gives me is a drink o’pop, seven slices of bread and a small tin of pilchard that I have to consume for four days).”



The minimum wage, which more than 80% report is the rate they receive is less than half a Euro per hour. Over 96% report that they have to pay for their uniforms and this is deducted from their salaries. Workers are also deducted pay if they arefound sleeping on duty - regardless of how many days they have been working.



Nigel Venes, UNI Organiser said, " The conditions of private security guards in Namibia are a scandal. UNI Global Union, our affiliate union in Finland PAM and our Finnish Solidarity Support partner SASK, will work closely to support NATAU every step of the way to tackle this problem. Some of these employers should be charged with slavery instead of sitting in their large mansions counting their profits. We make the offer to the better employers, the Security Association of Namibia (SAN) and the Government to work with us for better regulation, living wages, an end to harassment and exploitation. Now is the time to act."



For more information, contact Adrienne.kirkman@uniglobalunion.org