Havana Four Way is one of the busiest intersections in Windhoek, with small businesses and vendors lining the roadside from early morning until sunset. 

The intersection has provided a business area for vendors sell tomatoes, maize meal, sugar, shoes, clothes, firewood and dishwashing supplies. 

For many families, this stretch of road is more than a marketplace; it is their only source of income. 

One of the traders, Elia Kaute, who has been running his small business at Havana Four Way since 2019, said he started with very little. 

“I started with just two kilograms of sugar. I used my own money. I did not get any government help,” he said. 

Today, he sells Top Score, sugar and other basic food items. A 10kg bag of sugar sells for N$140, while 5kg bags go for around N$ 65 to N$ 75, depending on supply prices. He buys his stock from large retail shops when there are special offers, then resells it at a small profit. 

“This is where I get bread for my children. I pay for their school from this business,” he said. 

His business has grown over the years. At one time, he employed four people. Now he employs two workers, whom he pays monthly. 

He said, business is going well and growing, but not without challenges. Rising prices in town have made it harder to restock goods. However, his biggest concern is uncertainty about their trading space. The City of Windhoek plans to construct and improve the road near Havana Four Way. Traders fear they may be removed from the area without being given another place to operate. 

“We want to sell. We want to get our bread. Please give us a place to sell,” he said. 

Vendors recently discussed their concerns at a meeting linked to Soweto Market, but they are still waiting for clear guidance on where they will be allowed to trade once construction begins. 

Despite the uncertainty, the small businesses continue to operate, serving hundreds of customers daily. 

For many residents in Havana and nearby areas, these informal traders provide affordable goods close to home. As the city develops its infrastructure, traders hope authorities will remember the role small businesses play in fighting unemployment and supporting families. 

The struggles 

The uncertainty has created stress among vendors. 

Some have already reduced the number of workers they employ, and they have stopped hiring completely because they are unsure about the future. 

Weather conditions also add to their suffering. With no proper shelters, traders are exposed to the hot sun, strong winds and rain. When it rains, goods can be damaged. On very hot days, customers stay away. 

Security is another issue. Because they operate in open spaces, traders worry about theft, especially early in the morning or late in the evening. Without proper storage facilities, some must transport their goods back home daily, adding to transport costs. 

Access to basic services is limited. There are a few toilets, no running water nearby and no formal electricity connections. Many operate without proper permits, leaving them vulnerable to being chased away during inspections. 

Recently, traders discussed their concerns about market construction, but they are still waiting for clear answers from the authorities. 

-pmukokobi@nepc.com.na