About Us
United in Strength. Driven by Justice.
The Namibia Public Workers Union (NAPWU) is a democratic, worker-led organization committed to protecting, representing, and empowering employees across Namibia’s public service and state-owned enterprises. Since its establishment in the late 1980s, NAPWU has been at the forefront of the labour movement, fighting for fair wages, improved working conditions, and social and economic justice for all workers.
We believe that every worker deserves dignity, equality, and respect and through unity, we ensure that those values are protected in every workplace we represent.
Our Journey: From the Struggle to Empowerment
Namibia Public Workers Union (NAPWU) was formed on 6 December 1987. At that time, Namibia was still ruled by an oppressive colonial regime and NAPWU was facing many difficulties because of its commitment to a free and independent Namibia. NAPWU officials were often harassed and even arrested but NAPWU continued to grow and became the strongest union in the civil service.
Today, NAPWU organizes workers in the civil service, including government ministries, municipalities, parastatals, semi-stated institutions, private hospitals and schools as well as any organization providing social services, and that is wholly or partially dependent on government funding.
NAPWU has managed to sign recognition agreements with most of the municipalities, parastatals, old aged homes, private schools and hospitals as well as the Government of the Republic of Namibia and negotiates for better conditions of employment of its members.
Our Core Values
- Solidarity: We stand together as one voice for all workers.
- Integrity: We uphold honesty, transparency, and accountability in all our actions.
- We care Democracy: We promote inclusive, member-driven decision-making.for your business just like ours
- Equity: We fight for fairness, equal opportunity, and gender equality.
- Empowerment: We build knowledge and leadership capacity among members.
Mission
To promote, protect, and advance the rights and interests of public workers through collective action, negotiation, education, and solidarity.
Vision
To be a strong, united, and progressive trade union that contributes to decent work, social justice, and economic empowerment for all workers in Namibia.
What We Do
NAPWU’s work covers all major areas of worker representation and support, including:
Collective Bargaining
Negotiating fair wages, benefits, and working conditions with government ministries and state-owned enterprises.
Legal & Workplace Representation
Defending members in disciplinary cases, labour disputes, and unfair dismissals.
Policy Advocacy
Influencing national labour and social policies to improve public service delivery and worker welfare.
Social Welfare & Support
Providing assistance programs and welfare schemes to improve members’ livelihoods.
Led by Workers, for Workers
NAPWU’s leadership is democratically elected by its members and represents a broad spectrum of Namibia’s public workforce.
The National Executive Committee oversees policy direction, while regional and branch structures ensure grassroots representation in every part of the country.
Our Commitment to the Future
Building a Stronger, Fairer Namibia
As the world of work evolves, NAPWU remains committed to safeguarding workers’ rights and ensuring decent work for all. We continue to strengthen our organization through digital transformation, youth empowerment, and inclusive participation, because a stronger union means a stronger nation.
Ready to Make a Difference?
Together, We Build a Fair Future
When workers unite, they create progress for all. NAPWU’s commitment goes beyond negotiations — we empower communities, advocate for equality, and promote policies that uplift public workers and strengthen Namibia’s economy.