Windhoek’s vibrant street markets are driving a remarkable surge in the creative industry, providing local artists with a vital platform to showcase and sell their work despite limited commercialization opportunities.
In the heart of Namibia’s capital, veteran artist Christina Omole has transformed a public space into an open-air gallery, displaying jewelry, textiles, and handicrafts at her makeshift stall. Omole, who has been trading since 1990, says the market has been her lifeline.
“For 35 years, this space has been my way out. If I were to leave, I wouldn’t know where to sell because there are limited platforms for trading artworks in Namibia,” she said.
Omole’s journey reflects the evolution of Windhoek’s creative sector. Initially, she only sold handmade jewelry, but as customer demand grew, she expanded her offerings by collaborating with local wood carvers.
She is not alone in this thriving ecosystem. Denzel Oshondili, who now manages his family’s art business, continues a legacy that began with his grandmother 35 years ago. His stall along Independence Avenue offers both locally made and imported artworks from neighboring countries, including Botswana, Kenya, and Zimbabwe.
“Most of our clients are tourists looking for souvenirs, so we focus on items that are easy to carry and use,” Oshondili explained. On good days, he earns over 3,000 Namibian dollars ($164), though income fluctuates.
For newer artists like Selma David, who joined the market in 2022, the opportunity has been transformative. “Before coming here, I struggled to find customers, but now my business is stable,” she said.
Beyond financial benefits, street artists have adapted to changing consumer trends by offering customized items and live demonstrations. “Tourists enjoy seeing how jewelry is made. It deepens their appreciation for Namibian art,” Omole noted.
Namibia’s growing tourism sector has contributed to this boom. According to the 2023 Tourist Statistical Report, international arrivals nearly doubled from 461,027 in 2022 to 863,872 in 2023. Experts believe this shift toward experiential tourism is fueling the creative industry’s expansion.
Despite challenges like inconsistent income, local artists remain optimistic. Many plan to embrace social media marketing to expand their reach and tap into international markets, ensuring that Windhoek’s street art scene continues to flourish.
