Every weekday, from morning until late afternoon, Ryan Raatz stands in front of Woermann Hyper, turning sausages on a small grill. Smoke rises as he prepares his speciality chakalaka hot dogs for passing customers.
“This is my small business. I call it Street Dogs. You’ll find me here Monday to Friday, nine to five,” he said.
Raatz is one of many young Namibians who have turned to the streets to make a living as jobs remain hard to find. With unemployment still high, informal businesses like his are becoming a lifeline for many.
He said his decision to start selling hot dogs came from both his surroundings and his personal struggle.
“These people that sells here inspired me, and my situation at home. Unemployment is high in our country, so I had to create something for myself,” he said.
Like many street vendors, he depends on daily sales to survive. Some days are good. Others are not.
“When colleges and schools are closed, sales are low. And the rainy weather, the wind affects us,” he said.
Despite the challenges, he keeps showing up. “My family and my dreams keep me going,” he said.
Across Namibia, street food vendors play a key role in feeding towns and cities. From the kapana stands in Katutura to the hot dog sellers in busy streets, they provide affordable meals to workers, students and passersby.
Kapana, grilled meat sold mostly in open markets, has long been a symbol of hustle and survival. Vendors often wake up early to prepare meat, spices and firewood. They stand for hours in the heat, smoke and dust, serving customers one portion at a time.
Hot dog sellers like Raatz are part of this growing informal food trade. The start-up cost is lower than opening a shop, but the risks remain high. Many operate without proper shelter, running water or storage facilities. Food must be sold quickly before it goes bad.
Access to money is another struggle. Most vendors use their own savings or borrow from friends and family to start. Expanding the business is difficult without loans or support.
Competition is also tough. In busy areas, several vendors may sell the same food, forcing them to lower prices just to attract customers.
Still, many continue because there are few other options.
His goal is bigger than just getting through the day. “My dream is to be a big business owner,” he said.
He believes young people should not wait for opportunities but create their own.
“My advice is to persevere and believe in yourself. Try what you think is good for you,” he said.