By Rochelle Neidel
GROOTFONTEIN – Retail giant Pick n Pay yesterday opened its doors in Grootfontein at the newly constructed Otjivanda Mall that costs investors N$70 million and will create about 350 jobs.
The new 7000 square-metre shopping mall that will give the north-eastern town a brand new face is expected to be fully completed early next year as some shops are still under construction.
Governor of the Otjozondjupa Region Samuel Nuuyoma said it was a great milestone for the town as development has been long overdue. “I know many have complained why the town is not developed but the time is now , and many devlopments are still to come.”
Nuuyoma who also spoke on behalf of Minister of Regional and Local Government, Housing and Rural Development, (Rtd) Major-General Charles Namoloh urged Grootfontein residents to keep the town clean as the town is a gateway to neighbouring countries such as Zambia and Zimbabwe.
“Take pride in your town, many tourists pass through your town and every resident should take responsibility to keep the town clean,” stated the regional governor.
Nuuyoma said unemployment remains a big problem, but a country without unemployed people should not just be regarded as a dream but as a dream that can one day become a reality with initiatives such as the opening of the new mall expected to create about 350 new jobs.
“As you probably know one of the biggest challenges we have in Namibia is unemployment, which probably leads to other evils such as drug and alcohol abuse , domestic violence and criminality. Today Pick n Pay has employed around 56 Namibians, which means that more people will benefit and lead a better life,” elaborated Nuuyoma.
Pick n Pay Managing Director Henry Feris said Pick n Pay which falls under the Ohlthaver and List Group has plans to extend its branches to more towns. Currently there are 19 stores across the country.
“One thing is certain, we will not stop with these new developments and upgrading of existing stores as we are committed to our customers and Namibia,” he said.
The opening was celebrated by many residents of the town and cultural groups gave very excellent performances at the official opening of the store.