Onghendambala Open Market revamped
Windhoek mayor Joseph Uapingene inaugurated the first phase of renovations at the Onghendambala Open Market in Greenwell Matongo, Katutura, on Friday.The event marked a significant step towards empowering the local business community and addressing the pressing issue of unemployment in the area.
The market's launch aims to foster economic growth and self-sufficiency by encouraging entrepreneurship and private-sector involvement.
The market's revitalisation addressed previous complaints by traders about its dilapidated state.
New structures and facilities now provide a focal point for buyers and sellers to exchange goods and services.
"I am so grateful because before the renovations, there were no doors and we had to take all our products home but now we can lock it up," said 29-year-old vendor Grace Erastus.
Regional councillor of Samora Machel constituency, Nestor Kalola, acknowledged these complaints, stating: "I am aware that there have been complaints by traders that the open market was an eyesore as it was in a dilapidated state. There is, therefore, no doubt that the new and revamped structure here will serve its purpose to the benefit of both businesses and consumers, as it is strategically located and provides a focal meeting point where sellers and buyers can exchange goods and services."
The first-phase improvements include the construction of additional stands, fencing, and the extension of the market's roof and were carried out at a total cost of N$332 886, provided by the US embassy to Namibia.
The initiative aimed to consolidate informal market vendors into a legitimate entities with purchasing power and fixed addresses. US embassy public affairs officer Tiffany Miller said: "Through the Alumni Engagement Innovation Fund (AEIF), the US embassy provided financial support of US$17 090 to VISET Namibia to bolster this initiative."
She highlighted the significance of empowering individuals, such as Luise Mwanyangapo, an alumna of the US government-sponsored Mandela Washington Fellowship, who spearheaded the project.
"The project was implemented by Kamau Architects on site, and the contractors were appointed by VISET Namibia. Phase two of the project will be assessed and finalised following consultations with the vendors and other key stakeholders," Uapingene concluded.