Namibia’s capital, Windhoek, is witnessing a thriving creative industry, largely fueled by the city’s vibrant street markets. With limited formal platforms for local artists to showcase their work, these markets have become vital hubs for creativity and entrepreneurship.
In the heart of Windhoek’s central business district, Christina Omole has transformed a public space into an open-air gallery. The seasoned artist in her seventies recounts her journey selling jewellery, handicrafts and textiles from her makeshift stall. “This space has been my lifeline since 1990. Without it, I wouldn’t know where to sell my art,” she shares.
Omole has expanded her offerings over the years, from handmade jewellery to wood carvings, and has built a network of local artisans. Her dedication mirrors that of Denzel Oshondili, who runs a stall along Independence Avenue, continuing a family tradition started by her grandmother 35 years ago. Oshondili now oversees sales, while her grandmother focuses on production.
Not only do these artists sell locally-made products, they also collaborate with art creators from neighboring countries such as Botswana, South Africa, Tanzania, Kenya and Zimbabwe. This allows them to offer a variety of products that appeal to tourists looking for portable souvenirs.
“Some days we make more than 3,000 Namibian dollars (about $164), other days it’s quieter. But this work keeps us going,” Oshondili explained. Newcomers like Selma David, who joined the market in 2022, have also found stability and established a customer base.
The boom has been helped by a revival in tourism, as noted in a 2023 report by the Namibian Ministry of Environment, Forestry and Tourism. International arrivals have nearly doubled from 461,027 in 2022 to 863,872 in 2023. According to Isobel Manuel, a senior lecturer in hospitality and tourism at the Namibia University of Science and Technology, tourists are now looking for deeper cultural experiences, which has boosted the arts sector.
Despite the success, challenges remain. “The income is inconsistent and art is often undervalued here,” Omole said. “But I plan to adapt to the client’s preferences and keep going.” Many artists are now turning to social media to expand their reach and explore international markets, and she hopes to further elevate Namibia’s creative industry.