WINDHOEK, Oct. 18 (Xinhua) -- The Namibian government announced on Thursday a significant increase in the national minimum wage to benefit a large portion of the workforce, effective from Jan. 1, 2025.

The minimum wage for all workers, except domestic and agricultural workers, will be raised to 18 Namibian dollars (about 1 U.S. dollar) per hour, Namibia's Minister of Labor, Industrial Relations and Employment Creation Utoni Nujoma said in a statement.

As for domestic and agricultural workers, their minimum wages will rise gradually over three years until reaching 18 Namibia dollars per hour.

Nujoma said the minimum wages must be paid in cash or cash transfer and may not be reduced by rations or other in-kind donations. Any increase in the new minimum wage (NMW) during the three years will also apply to these groups.

"The introduction of the NMW marks a significant milestone in our nation's journey towards social equity and economic justice. For too long, countless Namibians have worked tirelessly, often under harsh conditions, yet have struggled to make ends meet," he added.

Currently, Namibia has minimum wages in security, agricultural, construction, and domestic sectors, while others have remained at the mercy of wage offers by employers, most of which have been very low.