Namibian traders see better days after pandemic upheavals

WINDHOEK, Namibia－A jubilant festive mood engulfing the world has created relief and brisk business for Namibia's small and medium-sized enterprises and informal traders whose earnings were eroded by the COVID-19 pandemic during the year.

The jubilant mood is also touching the few Ovahimba people who sell traditional wares including bracelets, necklaces and clothing material made from local products along Independence Avenue, Namibia's busiest main road cutting across the central business district of the capital Windhoek.

The Ovahimba are people living in northern Namibia.

"I come here every day. I have been in this business for close to 15 years but this year was the worst. There was a time we could not come here because the city was closed because of COVID-19. Now at least there are a few foreigners that are coming to buy our goods. I sell bracelets for 150 Namibian dollars ($10), necklaces range from 100 to 300 Namibian dollars as some are made from original seashells," said Kaija Tjitjara, an Ovahimba ware vendor.

"I did not make much money from March to October but in the past few weeks from November, I have recovered well and sales have really improved. Sometimes I even stay here late because some tourists still come to buy my goods as late as 7 pm so I cannot leave the business," Tjitjara said.

The robust business is also being seen even in the capital's high-density suburbs.

"I cannot really complain but the few weeks to date have been good in terms of business. Bearing in mind that there was a time we were not even able to sell one dress because people were on lockdown and also financially troubled by COVID-19.Our situation is much better," Loide Uushona said.

Uushona sells traditional dresses known as Odelela in the Oshiwambo language.

"In the past three weeks, I have managed to earn about 5,000 Namibian dollars. This is only in a few weeks compared to times when I can only raise that much in a matter of months. So maybe people are now spending because of Christmas," she said.

Another informal trader in the streets of Windhoek, Talent Chasi, a Zimbabwean who specializes in selling cellphone accessories including screen covers, chargers and sometimes footwear that Chasi buys from the popular China Town in Windhoek, said life is better working than sitting at home.

"I am generally happy now with the festive season on us that I can move around and sell my goods to the customers compared to just being stuck home. Business is OK."

Xinhua