With restaurants and cafes nearly all closed because of the lockdown across the country, there has been a growth in takeaways, street cuisines and the delivery of food.

Fast-food delivery services have sprung up during the pandemic, with players pulling out all the stops to tempt consumers.

VIBEZ! caught up with a few local entrepreneurs who are flourishing in the fast-food delivery business.

According to many of them, the sale of fast food is the easiest way to make ends meet – and to some, it has become a go-to ‘side-hustle’, ranging from ethnic to fusion cuisine, cupcakes, ice-cream and everything in between.

Thee iron lady, owned by Albertine Hanhele (Windhoek)

I specialise in seafood delicacies (seafood platters to be specific). What makes my food unique is my special secret sauce that my clients love so much. The secret ingredient is proving to be a hit with my clients and one to surely be reckoned with. I realised my passion for cooking at a tender age. I nurtured that passion as I grew up. Besides it being a passion, I realised that I had developed the skill of cooking. It is against this background that I decided to turn the passion and skills into a profitable venture to supplement my income.

Olivia’s chicken, owned by Olivia Hamukwaya (Windhoek)

I prepare the best marathon chicken in town. I have always been good at preparing traditional chicken that I decided to let my skills generate an extra income. It is very affordable and made with love. Most of my clients prefer the chicken for dinner or when they have a special gathering with friends and family; however, the curfew has quite impacted the ordering and delivery process.

Food is an everyday need; that is why I decided to venture into the food business. I cook all types of meals and we do deliveries at different companies. I have created a WhatsApp group for my customers. Once I cook, I capture my food and send to the group so people can order. Since most local eateries have closed in our town, we have been getting quite a number of customers.

Freshly baked Omungome, owned by Esther Ananias (Ongwediva)

I sell Oshiwambo traditional bread, commonly known as ‘Omungome’. Instead of making it the traditional way, I bake mine in the oven. The only special ingredients I use is butter, smoked and pounded ‘Omahuku’, and cake flour, instead of the usual sugar and salt. I have a special way of baking it and that makes it unique. I am inspired by my fellow mates doing business. I wanted to get out of my comfort zone and just do something that would help me provide for myself. I love the kitchen; I love cooking and trying out everything I see or read about.

- ashikololo@nepc.com.na