In a culinary scene where franchises often dominate, one young Namibian is proving that passion, patience, and a pinch of courage can still create something truly flavourful.
Thirty-five-year-old Elizabeth Ongaleni Ihuema, born in Tsumeb and now based in Windhoek, is the heart behind Tasty Delights.
This growing food venture has quickly become a favourite among locals seeking fresh, comforting, homemade treats.
The idea for Tasty Delights didn’t arrive with fanfare. Instead, it began quietly, with Ihuema’s desire to offer food that feels genuine, flavour-forward, and a little nostalgic. “It started small, I was testing recipes, selling at community events, and paying attention to what people actually enjoyed. Those early days, though modest, were crucial. They refined not just the menu but also the brand’s identity, rooted firmly in authenticity,” she shared. At the core of Tasty Delights is a commitment to quality without the hefty price tag. Ihuema prides herself on using fresh ingredients and honest preparation, aiming to give customers something delicious, dependable, and distinctly hers. “We have built a loyal base because people know they’re getting value. Real value,” said the chef. Among the standouts on the menu are a handful of signature items that customers simply refuse to let go of. They are customer’s favourites not because they are trendy, but because they taste like home.
“People tell me, ‘This reminds me of something my mother used to make’,” Ihuema noted with pride. These comforting flavours, paired with affordability, have made the products easy for customers to recommend and even easier to return too. But building a brand from scratch has not been smooth sailing. From sourcing quality ingredients to balancing stock and escalating costs.
“There were moments were maintaining quality while keeping costs manageable felt like a tug-of-war,” she admitted. Yet through smart planning, strong supplier relationships, and a willingness to adapt, she has managed to steer the venture forward.
Community support has also been a powerful force behind Tasty Delights’ growth.
Ihuema spoke openly about how customer feedback has shaped everything from portion sizes to new product launches.
“People don’t just buy from us; they help us improve. Their loyalty is one of the biggest reasons we’re still standing and still growing,” she said.
Despite the hurdles, what keeps Elizabeth motivated is surprisingly simplely, joy.
“Seeing people genuinely enjoy what we create keeps me going,” she said. Tasty Delights is not just an income stream for her; it’s a passion project infused with purpose and a meaningful way to contribute to the community she calls home. Looking ahead, Ihuema’s ambitions remain grounded yet determined. She hopes to expand her product range, strengthen her presence at local events, and eventually open a dedicated space where customers can enjoy her treats more comfortably. Investments in better equipment and improved processes are also on the horizon, with the goal of scaling without sacrificing the handmade touch that defines the brand.
At the heart of it all is a guiding principle Elizabeth never compromises on: serve with integrity. “Food should be made with care, and customers should always feel valued,” she said firmly. It’s a simple philosophy, but one that has carried Tasty Delights from humble beginnings to a brand many Namibians are proud to support.
-isipunga@nepc.com.na