Namibia’s men’s grooming industry is experiencing consistent growth as an increasing numbers of men invest in professional grooming services, aligning with a worldwide trend.

Business listings from early 2026 indicate that approximately 75 barbershops are active across Namibia. These are located in Windhoek, Swakopmund, Walvis Bay, and various smaller towns. 

The sector comprises of small independent barbers, franchise chains, and modern premium salons that provide online booking and a broader array of services.

Growth is driven by changing lifestyles, particularly among young men. 

Many barbershops now offer more than basic haircuts. Services such as beard shaping, hair colouring, scalp treatments, and personalised styling are becoming common.

Booming sector

Joe’s Fade Cuts, a local grooming brand founded by Joel Mwatilefu, is one of the expanding businesses in the sector. It operates branches in Windhoek and Ongwediva, with plans to open another branch in a different town.

“For many young men, visiting the barber is no longer just about cutting hair. It is about confidence, identity, and self-care,” he said, adding that he started the business because he believed his skills should not go to waste.

“I was inspired by the belief that talent should not be wasted. I wanted to prove that skills, when combined with discipline and structure, can become successful businesses,” he said.

He started barbering while studying an Electrical General course at the Vocational Training Centre in Ongwediva. At first, barbering was only a side skill.

“In 2015, I realised that I could turn my idea into reality and build a real business. That is when I decided to take barbering seriously,” he said.

He said  that he started Joe’s Fade Cuts using personal savings and income from side hustles, without any government or external funding.

“I did not receive any government aid or funding. The business was built through self-funding, reinvestment, and hard work,” he said. He explained that the initial costs covered barbering tools, basic equipment, workspace setup, and branding.

“The business also cost me years of hard work, discipline, long hours, and personal sacrifice,” he added.

Joe’s Fade Cuts currently employs eight people, all trained internally to meet the company’s standards.

“I am doing this for my family, my employees, and young people who have talents but lack opportunities,” Mwatilefu said.

He mentioned that the business has expanded from a small haircut service into a well organised brand with several branches, a training academy, proprietary hair products, and a foundation dedicated to empowerment and skills development.

Despite the growth, he said the business faces challenges such as high operating costs, cash flow management, and funding expansion.

“During tough months, I reduce unnecessary expenses, increase my involvement in the business, and focus on loyal customers and value-added services,” he said. He said his long-term goal is to build a strong Namibian brand that creates jobs and inspires others to build businesses.

“I am protecting the dream of ownership, legacy, and empowerment by building a brand that creates opportunities and inspires others to do more than just survive,” he said. -pmukokobi@nepc.com.na