Wilhelmina Iimene 

For many, mothers are the greatest blessings, and their unfailing love and support are unmatched. 

Brothers Jerry Shitenga, a 29-year-old business administration graduate; Nicodemus Phillipus (28) and Rassie Shigwedha (21) feel the same, especially after their mother inspired them to start an oil manufacturing company.

Tangi Manufacturing was born and has been supplying the local markets since 2014. 

“I got inspired by my mother, who worked at a company that manufactured Ximenia, locally known as oombeke oil. After getting a new job, she talked me into opening my own company,” Shitenga told Youth Corner. 

Tangi Manufacturing is named after the brothers’ youngest sibling, Tangi, who is not yet a member of the business. 

The business processes Namibian indigenous natural seeds into high-quality natural oil for the local cosmetic industry and international markets.

They produce oil from marula and Ximenia seeds, and they are now conducting research on how to make oil from melon seeds. 

The seeds are harvested by local rural women in return for cash. 

“We supply both semi-finished and finished goods. Our consumers decide what they want to do with it,” Shigwedha said.

Marula oil is rich in protein; it is light and easily absorbed, which makes it the best moisturiser, suitable for all skin types. The brothers, thus, recommend spas consider using it as massaging oil. 

It also acts as a sunscreen, and prevents dry air from affecting the skin. 

The oil acts as an anti-ageing oil, as it reduces wrinkles. 

“The high antioxidants in marula oil can fight inflammation and help prevent cholesterol,” the trio noted as they made a recommendation for people to opt for it when cooking. 

When applied to the body, Ximenia oil increases blood flow and stimulates the production of sebum, which is the body’s moisturiser. 

It is also good for hair growth and has anti-dandruff properties.  

What stands out most about their products is that it is 100% pure, as no additives are added. 

“We take our oil for bacteria testing at labs to check if the oil is healthy and suitable for human consumption or use, and just to make sure that we deliver products that are up to the standard of the business,” Shigwedha said. 

Besides producing oil, they also provide training to people who are interested in learning oil processing, basic business skills of this type of enterprise, as well as export and logistic coordination.

To get these Namibian products, contact Shitenga on 0813204535. 

- imenewilly@gmail.com