Small and medium enterprises (SMEs) are often called the backbone of Namibia’s economy. They create jobs, support households, and drive innovation in local communities. Yet behind the statistics are thousands of entrepreneurs battling financial pressures, high operating costs, and regulatory hurdles.
Namibia has an estimated 40 000 SMEs, which together contribute about 12% to the country’s GDP and provide livelihoods for more than 200 000 people, according to the Ministry of Industrialisation and Trade.
Despite this impact, research shows that between 70% and 90% of SMEs fail within their first five years due to challenges ranging from limited access to credit and high bank interest rates to inadequate business training and poor market access.
However, with the launch of the Sixth National Development Plan (NDP6), the government aims to strengthen the SME sector, raise manufacturing’s share of GDP from 10.6% to 18% by 2030, and create at least 70 000 new jobs.
For many business owners, these struggles are not just numbers on a page, they are lived realities.
Inspired by international fashion brands and driven by a passion for design, 27-year-old Dusken Kamwi from the Zambezi region is steadily making a name for himself in Namibia’s fashion industry.
Kamwi, who grew up in Mwanzi village in the Singalamwe area, started his clothing business in 2021, two years after completing Grade 12 at Sesheke Senior Secondary School.
What began as a personal talent for sewing garments for family and friends has since grown into a full-time venture that caters to men, women and children.
“I never saw this as a business at first, but my family and friends encouraged me to take it seriously. Seeing global brands like Louis Vuitton, Chanel and Nigerian label Dr Clothing achieve international recognition, gave me hope that I could also succeed. Windhoek Fashion Week finally inspired me to follow my talent,” he said.
Over the past four years, Kamwi has built a loyal client base, with growing demand both in Katima Mulilo and online. He says social media has played a key role in expanding his reach and attracting new customers.
The business has also become his primary source of income, enabling him to pay rent, cover household expenses, and support his child, who is currently in kindergarten. Beyond his family, Kamwi provides opportunities for others, employing four assistants and supporting six children through his work. Despite his progress, Kamwi admits the journey is not without challenges.
“Balancing growth and quality are difficult because of cash flow shortages and unexpected expenses. But I stay focused on my goals no matter what comes,” he said.
He added that, as Namibia’s fashion industry continues to grow, he hopes to one day reach the international stage, following in the footsteps of the brands that inspires him.
-pmukokobi@nepc.com.na