The cabinet wants former Meatco CEO Mushokabanji back, despite his failure to save the meat company from money troubles. President Nandi-Ndaitwah backs his return, reportedly influenced by Swapo's Shaningwa plus businessman Joseph Andreas, who has beef market interests. The ex-finance minister Shiimi refused this plan, saying only the board should pick the CEO. Sources believe Nandi-Ndaitwah removed Shiimi from Cabinet partly because he blocked Mushokabanji's contract renewal. This CEO battle has become one of the first political fights in the new government.
The push for Mushokabanji's five-year term started last year when Cabinet ordered his contract renewed. Board chairman Nghikembua, with most directors, asked to search for better candidates instead of keeping Mushokabanji. Nghikembua even threatened resignation to protect his reputation from association with mismanagement. Under Mushokabanji, Meatco lost N$206 million pre-tax plus needed a N$200 million government bailout. The company failed to pay farmers on time, causing job losses plus cash problems.
Meatco couldn't pay 245 commercial livestock farmers N$320 million for cattle delivered to its abattoir. The company slaughters just 2,250 animals monthly—far below the 5,000 needed to break even. Former minister Kawana also pushed for Mushokabanji's appointment. Cabinet secretary Simataa insisted this matter stay on the Cabinet's agenda despite the concerns.
The push for Mushokabanji's five-year term started last year when Cabinet ordered his contract renewed. Board chairman Nghikembua, with most directors, asked to search for better candidates instead of keeping Mushokabanji. Nghikembua even threatened resignation to protect his reputation from association with mismanagement. Under Mushokabanji, Meatco lost N$206 million pre-tax plus needed a N$200 million government bailout. The company failed to pay farmers on time, causing job losses plus cash problems.
Meatco couldn't pay 245 commercial livestock farmers N$320 million for cattle delivered to its abattoir. The company slaughters just 2,250 animals monthly—far below the 5,000 needed to break even. Former minister Kawana also pushed for Mushokabanji's appointment. Cabinet secretary Simataa insisted this matter stay on the Cabinet's agenda despite the concerns.
