Creating opportunities in the midst of adversity
In the heart of Okahandja's Promiseland informal settlement, residents have decided to take matters into their own hands by showcasing their skills and entrepreneurship at the Hokaduka soccer field.Despite the challenges posed by limited access to formal jobs and resources, the community came together to organise a fun day and open market last Saturday selling various handcrafted goods.
"This is the first time something like this is happening here. My group and I decided to host this event to help our people because the government just sits around in parliament with their fat stomachs and you don't see them anywhere. But we are there for our people," said community activist and chair of the Okahandja Concerned Group, Seth Gariseb.
Gariseb added that the market would be held regularly to give community members a platform to sell their goods openly and have a greater chance of creating a small income.
"I usually sell my sweets and vetkoek around town and have to walk around to find customers because there isn't a market area where we can set up and sell," community member and entrepreneur Petelina Nunuses said.
Nunuses is one of many women of Promiseland who spend their time earning money to send their children to school.
Georgina Cloete is a trained chef who spends her days baking a variety of pastries and cooking meals to support her family, but she laments that there is no facility where she can officially work. "It's a great opportunity to be here to sell and market myself and give back to the community," she said.
With their determination to create their own opportunities, residents prove that self-help is a powerful tool for change. Through their initiative, they have not only showcased their talents but also strengthened their community by supporting each other and creating a space for economic growth.