Namibia’s brick manufacturing industry is on the rise, with manufacturers operating across the country. 

The sector continues to expand as new players enter the market, and established companies invest in more advanced machinery and technology to improve production. 

Different types of bricks, including clay, concrete and engineering bricks, are now widely available to meet various construction needs. With a growing focus on quality and sustainability, local production is being encouraged to reduce building costs, create jobs and support Namibia’s economic growth. Omitara resident Gervasius Isaak is no exception in this new generation of entrepreneurs shaping the industry. Isaak is the founder and owner of Omisa Bricks and Construction CC in Omitara, Omaheke region. 

The budding entrepreneur was born at Farm Uh-land and grew up in the dusty streets of Omitara. Today, he is a husband and father of three, building not only bricks but also a future for his family and community. 

He launched his business in February 2024, but the idea had been on his mind for nearly a year before he took the first step. 

His breakthrough came when he applied to the MTC4Life Programme, an initiative in partnership with SME Compete. 

Through the programme, Isaak received business management training and later completed brick manufacturing training with Shiyugulu Consultants in Ondangwa. 

After completing the training, he received N$5 000 and a brick-making machine to help him start operations. 

But his real starting capital was N$4 000 from his wife’s Namibia Student Finance Assistance Funds (NSFAF) savings. 

“That sacrifice was the foundation of our business. I am doing this for my family and for the future of my children,” he said. Omisa Bricks and Construction CC is now his main source of income. Depending on the size of projects and tenders, he employs between four and seven workers, including casual labourers. This means several families in Omitara rely directly on the business for survival. 

However, growth has not come without challenges. 

One of his biggest obstacles is the lack of sufficient machinery. 

At times, he secures tenders but struggles to meet deadlines due to limited production capacity. Brick-making equipment is expensive and requires careful financial planning. 

Last year, he applied for assistance through a Micro Finance Programme. In October, the local councillor informed him that equipment and tools had been purchased for him. 

To date, he is still waiting to receive them. Despite the delays, he remains hopeful. Omitara is a small settlement where only a handful of houses are built with bricks. Most homes are made from corrugated iron sheets. With limited employment opportunities and rising crime, he saw an urgent need for change. 

He believes his company can be part of that solution. 

“My mission is to create jobs and promote affordable brick houses in Omitara and the surrounding areas. I want to offer affordable prices, reasonable transport costs and flexible payment methods so that more people can build proper homes,” he said. 

Isaak said he is determined to grow Omisa Bricks and Construction CC into a sustainable business that contributes meaningfully to the region. 

“If the business fails, I will not give up. I will review my strategies, attend more training and continue improving until I reach my goals,” he said. 

-pmukokobi@nepc.com.na