PAMOL GM rolls out measures to improve workers’ conditions.

The event came one day after PAMOL workers had taken part in commemoration of this year’s International Labour Day, in Mundemba, Ndian Division of the South West Region.

To boost their morale, the General Manager recognised and rewarded meritorious workers who have been resilient and outstanding in performing their duties.

In all, 21 workers in different units of the corporation were recognised and rewarded by the management of PAMOL. 

Twelve were field workers, five from the processing unit, three from the transport unit and one who is attached to the office of Ndian Estate. 

Apart from certificates and other encouraging packages handed to the laureates, management went ahead to hand three brand new motorbikes to some personnel in order to boost their working morale.

Speaking at the ceremony, the General Manager of PAMOL, Mbile Tapea Solomon, enjoined the workers to continue to keep the hardworking spirit alive, adding that management is always there for them.                           

"We thank God that because of your efforts, we have been consistent. This new management met you in crisis, we bled together, we cried together, we thank you people for your efforts," Mbile Tapea intimated. 

"You people have to make a bit of efforts, because if production reduces, revenue will also decline and it will affect commitments," he cautioned, noting that "there are signs we are progressing and let's continue to make our production increase".

Assures regular salaries, payment of social insurance

Addressing the situation of salaries and payment of contributions to the National Social Insurance Fund, CNPS, the GM assured workers that their salaries will be paid regular and that measures have been taken to ensure effective contribution to CNPS. 

He reassured workers and retirees that they will have their regular benefits and family allowances.

The General Manager lauded measures taken by the government to support the company that has been hard-hit by the ongoing crisis in the North West and South West Regions. 

"Thanks to the State, from January 2021 till date, we are very current with our CNPS contributions," he added.

To improve the welfare of the workers, the General Manager announced the renovation of camp houses and other structures, extension of electricity and supply of potable water. 

On food sufficiency, the General Manager encouraged the workers to engage with the Ndian Divisional Delegate of Agriculture and Rural Development, so that they can provide some plantain suckers powered by PAMOL, to plan in their farms. 

Reacting to their massive turnout and participation at the International Labour Day celebration in Mundemba, Mbile Tapea Solomon expressed immense gratitude for the workers’ brilliant performance.                 

Trade union lauds management 

Meanwhile, addressing the concerns of workers on International Labour Day in Mundemba, Ndian Agricultural Workers, Fisheries and Animal Breeding Farmers Union, NAWOFAU, led by its president, Prince Henry Beseka, hailed PAMOL management for efforts at retuning the company to sustainability since their appointment in 2020. This, despite the devastating effects of the socio-political crisis on the company.

According to NAWOFAU, there have been relatively improved security and resumption of activities in Ndian and Lobe Estates, causing an increase in production.

The trade union mentioned a steady and progressive recall of workers to work, a remarkably prompt and regular payment of salaries and small holders’ proceeds, consistent efforts made by management to service CNPS debts and settlement of accumulated leave entitlements of workers. 

They also cited the regular provision of drugs in Lobe and Ndian pharmacies, engagement of a contracted Medical Doctor for Ndian Estate hospital, publication of the results of 2023 annual appraisals and the implementation of the results in April 2024.

On behalf of NAWOFAU, Chief Ondator Eshumbluga, expressed satisfaction that the measures have ushered in a renewed spirit of work in the workers, thereby increasing production and efficiency.

For his part, the Senior Divisional Officer, SDO of Ndian, Gilbert Baldena, equally showered praises on the turnout of PAMOL plantations workers on Labour Day celebration, applauding them for their commitment towards the company.       

It should be noted that PAMOL workers also took part in Labour Day celebrations in Ekondo-Titi in Ndian Division and Limbe, in Fako Division.