Otjiwarongo Municipality has highlighted that it is still sourcing funds to set up an open market for street vendors scattered around the town.

Currently, Otjiwarongo is without a functional open market, which has left vendors trading along busy intersections and pathways.

Plans to set up a N$52 million market have been delayed due to funding.

Otjiwarongo Mayor Leonard Simushi engaged vendors around the town center.

“We need to identify which issues can be addressed immediately and which ones may have to be postponed because they require funding. The vendors have expressed a need for a proper market where they can operate in a safe and secure environment—one that is protected from strong winds and other disasters. They also want secure storage facilities where they can leave their goods when they go home, instead of having to carry them back and forth between their homes and the market."

Simushi added that the vendors list will be updated to accommodate all informal traders.

Some vendors have called on the authorities to provide a proper market, saying traders have endured harsh conditions in the sun and rain for many years.

Meme Maria expressed her frustration over the leadership repeatedly seeking their votes but not solving the problem.

The Mayor promised to improve the Otjiwarongo market, but traders continue to face several challenges.

These include the nearby river and bridge, a lack of proper space to store their goods and stock, and inadequate lighting at the market.

The vendors said they have already raised these concerns with the mayor, who has given them hope that the problems will be addressed.

There are 1,000 informal traders operating in the town.