Windhoek builds N$4.7 million market for 46 traders
The City of Windhoek is constructing a new market opposite Shoprite, with Debmarine Namibia contributing N$3.2 million towards the project.
Informal traders in Windhoek's city centre will soon have a new N$4.7 million market opposite Shoprite, a project the City of Windhoek is building to accommodate 46 vendors. Debmarine Namibia is contributing N$3.2 million to the development, which is expected to be completed by December 2026. The site has been handed over to the contractor for construction to begin.
Traders who have operated at the site for years, like Ester Andreas, welcome the permanent trading space, hoping it will preserve their businesses and ease their dealings. However, some vendors, including Martha Mukuve, who sells vegetables, are concerned about the allocation of stalls and whether the City will meet the December 2026 completion deadline. They have been informed that traders with proper paperwork will receive priority.
This Shoprite market is one of four informal trading projects the City of Windhoek plans, including a N$8.8 million market and taxi rank near Central Hospital for 50 traders, and a N$15 million market at Truckport. A market for 350 traders at Havana 4-Way is stalled due to the relocation of 53 households. City CEO Moses Matyayi cited rapid urban migration as a strain on service delivery and called for central government support.
Why it mattersInformal traders in Windhoek will gain permanent trading spaces, improving their livelihoods and dignity.