The Namib Desert Diamonds (Namdia) has dismissed its Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Dr. Alisa Amupolo after she was found guilty of gross negligence and insubordination.
The board of directors made the decision following an independent disciplinary hearing concluded on 23 September 2025, which found the CEO guilty of two charges of gross negligence and one charge of gross insubordination.
Namdia said the disciplinary hearing, which commenced in November 2024, concerned operational decisions made by the CEO that led to losses for the business during the periods of April to August 2023, May 2024, and July 2024.
Board Chairperson Justus Hausiku said that the decision was not taken lightly, but the board believes it is in the best interest of the company and its success in a complex, competitive and rapidly evolving market.
“The Board would like to thank Dr. Amupolo for her service since 2022 and wish her well in her future endeavours,” he said.
Hausiku further confirmed that the termination is not related to the ongoing investigations into the diamond theft that occurred in January 2025 and her subsequent suspension in February 2025, but rather a pre-existing disciplinary hearing.
The company said Amupolo has the right to appeal the Board’s decision in accordance with the company’s disciplinary policy and procedures. Lelly Usiku will remain in place as interim CEO until a permanent appointment is made.
