Small and Medium Enterprises hold the key to Namibia’s economic growth. The sector does this by addressing unemployment, significantly contributing to the gross domestic product. More importantly, it sustains the livelihoods of many Namibians. Government has emphasised that it is crucial to recognise the crucial role SMEs play. Recent research indicates that SMEs provide employment and income to more than 160 000 Namibians, constituting about a third of the nation’s workforce. During a visit to the coast last week, Inside Business visited small businesses which impact their communities.