Lissony Njembo

Ragiv Oarum, a painter who specialises in road markings, residential painting, and interlock painting, is one of the beneficiaries of equipment through the Katutura Central constituency’s annual SME support programme. The initiative aims at empowering SMEs. 

Oarum received a spray machine. 

Oarum previously worked for more than five years at a spray-painting company in Windhoek but decided to resign, saying the job no longer served his purpose or his long-term ambitions.

In 2024, he eventually started painting houses independently and named his company One-Way-Painter.

As an ambitious young man, he did research on how to grow his company. Oarum researched painting techniques and machinery, and he connected with an employee at Graco, a Belgium-based manufacturer of painting equipment and products.

“I was introduced to this machine again by the Graco company online, and I believe that this will add value and boost my company,” he said.

“Last year, I applied for Katutura Central constituency’s annual SME support programme, and early this year, I received an SMS notifying me that my application was successful. I was told to come and collect my equipment,” he added. Oarum described the moment as overwhelming. “I was told that I will never benefit from that programme and that such funds are misused,” he added.

“I want to urge young people or everyone not to give up on their dreams,” he said.

Currently, Oarum runs the business with his cousin, Hofni Oarum. They operate as a mobile business and do not have a workshop yet.

“We approach potential clients and customers at hardware stores and offer our services,” he added. 

“We are currently at a hardware shop looking for potential clients,” he said.

Oarum encouraged young people not to give up on their dreams, emphasising that perseverance always leads to success, despite negative perceptions or challenges.

His cousin Hofni said he enjoys working alongside Ragiv and has gained valuable experience from him.

“Ragiv taught me professionalism and a strong work ethic, adding that efficiency is key in painting,” said Hofni. He added that the business is helping with their livelihoods and praised his cousin, crediting him as a great boss.

“The One-way-painter company can paint anything; it is fast and efficient. Call us at +264 81 218 218 30,” he said.  

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