Patience Makwele
For many Windhoek residents, they are the young men selling fudge at traffic lights, office blocks and shopping centres. But for the volunteers behind Tent City Namibia, every sale represents more than a sweet treat, it is an opportunity to help vulnerable people and draw attention to social challenges often overlooked.
Founded by four young entrepreneurs August Mathupi, Lungile Mathupi, Denzel Christiaan and Johannes Kampolo, the initiative is using fundraising and community outreach projects to support people affected by homelessness, poverty and substance abuse.
Speaking to Young Observer on behalf of the team, August Mathupi said the idea was born from conversations among friends who wanted to do more than simply organise events.
“We were sitting in the backyard brainstorming ideas and talking about things we could do. We realised that many young people were doing the same things but not necessarily giving back to the community,” he said.
The group said their motivation grew after witnessing the realities faced by some of the country’s most vulnerable people.
“We saw people living on the streets. We saw people who were sick and needed medical care. We saw people struggling with drug abuse and other challenges. We felt we had to do something, even if it means starting small,” Mathupi said.
According to him, many people facing hardship often lack support systems, guidance and opportunities to improve their circumstances.
“I think some people do not have someone to talk to or someone who genuinely cares. Others lose their sense of purpose. We wanted to create something that could bring hope and make a difference,” he said.
Although Tent City Namibia has become visible through its fundraising efforts in Windhoek, much of its charitable work takes place away from the public eye.
The group says it has assisted several individuals and families through donations and outreach activities, while respecting the privacy of beneficiaries who do not wish to be identified publicly.
“We do share some of our work online but there are things we do off camera. If people do not want to be photographed or posted on social media, we respect that,” Mathupi said.
The initiative currently consists of four core members and around 20 youth volunteers, with plans to expand and involve more young people in community projects.
Beyond raising funds, the group hopes to encourage other young Namibians to become active participants in addressing social challenges within their communities.
Mathupi believes meaningful change does not always require large financial resources.
“People often think everything is about money but sometimes people simply need resources, opportunities and support. There are many people who are passionate and willing to do something positive if they are given a platform,” he said.
The group has also called on government institutions, churches, businesses and community organisations to work together in supporting vulnerable people and creating opportunities for those struggling to rebuild their lives.
As Tent City Namibia continues its work, the young volunteers hope their efforts will inspire others to look beyond their own circumstances and contribute to building stronger communities.
For them, every packet of fudge sold is another step towards making a difference.
