Initiating a market culture in Swakopmund

Looking for an alternative Saturday shopping experience? Perhaps one where you can take the kids along and enjoy your coffee while browsing for unique and handmade goodies?

Then Swakopmund’s Vineta Market is the place to go. “The idea behind the market is to generate opportunities for young entrepreneurs who cannot afford shop rental and the other expenses of marketing their products. In the process we’ve have seen some seriously creative people in Namibia!” says Ronel Toll, the main organiser.

The marketers hail from Swakopmund, Walvis Bay, Henties Bay, and even as far afield as Otjiwarongo.

One of the regulars is the Cosdef Art and Crafts Centre, which is aimed at providing crucial linkages for crafters and buyers, while fostering a culture of entrepreneurship and self-sufficiency. 

The market takes place on the Saturday closest to the end of the month (so the chances are you won’t be short of cash!) in front of Woermann Brock Vineta and is presented from 8:30 in the morning till 14:00 in the afternoon. Contact Ronel for further info at 081 141 0434.

Compiled by Marita van Rooyen for the Travel News Namibia Spring 2013 print edition.