Allexer Namundjembo
Street vendors operating at the Havana Four-Way intersection in Windhoek have renewed calls for the construction of open markets, citing decades of trading in unsuitable conditions.
The traders, many of whom have been working in the area for years, say they are battling dust and uncertainty about their future as road construction progresses.
Hileni Namwandi, a vendor at the Havana Four-Way for three years, expressed frustration over the lack of proper trading facilities in the area.
“We are just hoping that we will get open markets in Havana, as there is a huge population, and we have many people who are willing to trade their goods. The only nearest open market is in Hakahana, and we can’t fit in there, Namwandi said.
The construction of the Eneas Peter Nanyemba Road, which connects Havana to Ongos Valley, has added to the traders’ concerns.
Many fear they will be displaced once the project is completed due to limited space.
Josua Hihangwapo, a fruit and vegetable vendor, said his livelihood is under threat.
“We make huge losses because our products get spoiled by the dust. We heard the government is planning to construct a district in Havana. If that is true, what if the City of Windhoek constructs an open market too? I believe that in that way we will boost the local economy and reduce the unemployment in our location since more youth who are robbing people will be employed during the construction of the clinic and the open markets, Hihangwapo said.
The Havana Four-Way is the second-largest informal trading hub in Windhoek after Stop N Shop in Okuryangava.
However, the ongoing roadworks have exacerbated the already challenging conditions for vendors, who rely on their small businesses to support their families.
Last year, City of Windhoek spokesperson Harold Akwenye said vendors trading at the site were temporarily relocated to an open market due to the road construction.
However, the high unemployment rate has forced many to return to the four-way intersection to make a living.
When contacted for comment, Akwenye reaffirmed the municipality’s commitment to addressing the needs of the street vendors.
He noted that a comprehensive master plan has been developed for constructing open markets along the road to Ongos.
“The city is committed to providing a conducive trading environment for all vendors while ensuring that urban development progresses in an organized and inclusive manner. The planned markets will provide a safe and sustainable space for vendors to continue their business once the road project is completed” Akwenye said.
He added that the municipality had engaged vendors in a public participation process to gather their input and address their concerns.
Akwenye urged vendors to remain informed through official municipal channels to avoid misunderstandings.
