Windhoek
The Strand Hotel Swakopmund plays a major role in the livelihood of craft traders who exhibit their arts and craft products at the popular Swakopmund Mole on a daily basis.
While some believe their businesses are doing better compared to the period during which the Strand Hotel Swakopmund was under construction, others are of the opinion that more support from the local public could help in stretching their pockets just a tad further.
Bau Gonyora is one of the craft traders who is excited about how his business has taken a positive turn ever since the hotel opened its doors. “I recall the days when the hotel was demolished and there was little movement of tourists in the area. This affected my business severely and resulted in me going home many a time with nothing to put on the table. However, since the hotel opened its doors last year, business has certainly picked up and I am now even more excited about the future. We do need more local support though. Support from our own people as well would make a big difference in our lives.”
Jennifer Chido Muprayi, a craft trader since 2008, expressed her delight at the positive impact the Strand Hotel Swakopmund has had.
“I am very happy that the Strand Hotel’s construction was completed because it definitely brings more tourists and even locals to the Mole, which result in more sales for us as traders. I see a positive difference in my revenue since the opening compared to the time the hotel was first demolished and even during construction. I am positive that things can only get better and I would like to urge the local community to also support us.”
Tata Maurice echoes the words of Gonyora and Muprayi, saying things are definitely looking up for them. He was one of the very optimistic traders who believed that business would improve immensely once the Strand Hotel Swakopmund came to life.
Maurice said: “While I am not yet where I want to be, I am happy that I can put bread on the table for my family. Sometimes business is slow but having the right attitude is what keeps me going.
It is such a specialized trade that requires time, dedication and passion and if only more people of the local community can support us other than tourists, it will be so much more rewarding.”
Ohlthaver & List (O&L) Group Manager, External Relations, Roux-che Locke says: “In line with the O&L purpose of ‘Creating a future, Enhancing life’ we are happy to support the communities in which we operate and create opportunities to improve the livelihoods of others.
The O&L culture embraces diversity across our businesses and beyond and as such we support initiatives that are sustainable, enhance the lives of community members and conserve our natural resources. I would like to urge locals and tourists alike to support the craft traders with their beautiful art which they do with so much passion and commitment.”