Two women from Onyaluwili Village in the Anamulenge Constituency of the Omusati Region have successfully transformed their traditional Oshiwambo pottery-making skills into a sustainable business that now provides for their families.

In 2013, Ridwin Amakali and Elizabeth Kefas received financial assistance exceeding N$11,000 through the micro-finance programme offered by the Anamulenge Constituency Office, which they used as start-up capital for their business.

The two specialise in pots, plates, and other items, producing about 35 pots a day.

However, their business is seasonal, as they can only operate from June to December. When the rains arrive, they must cease production due to the presence of snakes and scorpions.

Amakali and Kefas source clay soil from specific ponds in their vicinity to create their products. The clay is finished with cow dung, after which the products are burned and varnished to give them a polished appearance.

They operate from an underground workshop known as Onzimbogo, located within their home. Amakali said this arrangement is necessitated by concerns over vandalism and violence, particularly when working at night.

As a way of giving back to the community, the women provide training for young people. According to Kefas, some individuals they have trained have gone on to establish their own businesses. She therefore encourages the youth to take initiative and not wait for the government to give them jobs.

They sell their products in different towns, including Ondangwa and Omuthiya. Tourists also stop along the Outapi–Ondangwa road and the road to Omuthiya to buy from them.