Ongwediva
Two years after its proposed opening date, Oshakati Open Market is still not functional, despite assurances that it would open shortly after last year’s elections.
The opening of the open market has been delayed since June 2013 and the doors remain closed to both vendors and the general public.
At the time of the first proposed opening, Oshakati Town Council was still waiting for the fitting of the 12-floor observation tower, which was being manufactured in Germany.
The observation tower has since been installed and is named after one of the surrounding villages. It will give residents and visitors an aerial view of the town.
Public relations officer at Oshakati Town Council Jackson Muma said the council is happy with the progress of the open market. According to Muma, there is no set date for the opening because council is still busy setting up the administration of the market.
“We do not have a date yet, but we expect the market to open soon. Once we have a date council will pronounce itself and notify the public,” said Muma.
The new open market will house an administrative office, information kiosk, retail stalls and public meeting hall. It will also have public toilets, cold storage facilities, a craft market, seasonal food market, a children’s playground, and a 37-metre high observation tower. Additionally, the open market will also host a bus terminal.
The 1,7-hectare open market will eventually be sold to investors to raise funds to further develop the town.