While the recently concluded AUSC Region 5 Games brought fun and entertainment to residents in Windhoek and Swakopmund, it also delivered a major boost to small-scale vendors who offered their services during the competition.

The Games, which ran from 4 to 7 July, brought together athletes, fans, and technical officials from across the regions and vendors were among those who benefited, with their services in high demand at various venues.

One vendor, Katjiri Joseph, who sold fat cakes and sweets at the Windhoek Showgrounds where several sporting activities took place, said the Games brought in enormous profits compared to his usual daily earnings.

“I have been selling sweets and soup here for years, serving people working around this area, including at the mall and nearby offices. On a normal day, I would sell about three packs of sweets and one bucket of fat cakes, but during the Games, I had to triple the amount of stock I usually buy and sell,” he shared.

“We had many athletes storming our stalls every morning to buy sweets, cigarettes, and other items. During the Games, I made more money than I would typically make in three months,” he added.

At the University of Namibia main campus in Windhoek, Kakishi Anton, who was selling beverages and soft drinks, echoed similar sentiments. He said he has sold at many local events before, but the AUSC Games brought unmatched business.

“Thanks to the organisers, I wish the Games lasted a whole month. We made more than what we’d earn on a normal day, even when university students are around,” he said.

“I usually bring one cooler box full of beers and soft drinks, but since the start of the Games, I’ve been bringing three cooler boxes and buying twice the amount of bread I used to. Business has been booming,” he said with joy.

– mkambukwe@nepc.com.na

Photo: Heather Erdmann