Hertta-Maria Amutenja
In a country like Namibia, where traditional gender roles often dictate career paths, women like Linda Haimbili are challenging the status quo.
Born on 26 August 1996 in Ohakweenyanga village near Ongwediva, Haimbili’s upbringing as the only girl among boys instilled in her a sense of independence.
In 2019, Linda worked on the Onkumbula police station roofing project in the Oshikoto Region, standing out as the only woman among 87 men.
Her work earned her the moniker “The Welding Queen Among Men” from site managers.
Today, Linda is the leader of Core Commercial Construction cc, a company that specialises in house construction, plumbing, electrical work, welding services, and artisan training.
She emphasises inclusivity in her training programs and takes pride in representing women in the industry.
“We share equal opportunities in this field, and I want men to know that we are here to stay. We provide training without strict entry requirements because everyone deserves a chance,” she said.
Haimbili completed her primary education at Oikango Combined School and proceeded to Mweshipandeka High School in Ongwediva, finishing her secondary education in 2014.
Her passion for construction was ignited by her late mother, who built traditional sleeping rooms in their village.
“Watching my mother work inspired me, even though she passed away when I was just six,” Haimbili reflects.
After not passing Grade 12, Linda chose not to retake her exams. In 2016, she enrolled in a welding and metal fabrication course in Ondangwa but faced expulsion due to a student strike.
Undeterred, she applied to the Namibia Institute of Mining and Technology (NIMT) in Tsumeb in 2017. Financial constraints nearly derailed her plans, but a pivotal moment with the late NIMT Executive Director, Eckhart Mueller changed her life.
Mueller tragically lost his life in April 2019 alongside his deputy, Heimo Hellwig.
The two men were fatally shot at the entrance of NIMT’s Arandis offices, an act for which Ernst Lichtenstrasser was later sentenced to two life terms in prison.
She said Mueller encouraged her to persevere despite financial challenges.
“He saw something in me that I couldn’t see in myself at the time,” Haimbili said.
With his support, she completed her training, mastering 57 modules in just one year. She attributes much of her success to her late instructor, Mr. Theodore Nel, whose mentorship and encouragement still resonate with her.
Entering the workforce, Haimbili said she encountered challenges.
Her initial position paid a mere N$300 per month for welding ghetto houses in Windhoek’s Havana settlement.
Despite the low wages, she prioritised skill acquisition over immediate financial gain.
Haimbili is passionate about inspiring other women to pursue careers in male-dominated fields.
“Don’t let societal labels define you. Create your own reality and focus on building skills rather than chasing money,” she said.
Her long-term goal is to train 500 women in Namibia so that future generations can benefit from her skills and knowledge.
