Omuthiya market traders marched to Oshikoto governor Sacky Kathindi's office on Tuesday, demanding action against unlicensed Angolan vendors. Group representative Hilaria Shikongo presented a petition citing severe income losses since foreign traders increased after pandemic restrictions eased. She reported local sellers struggle to pay bills and school fees as customers prefer cheaper goods from unregistered merchants.
Vendors requested that foreign traders be barred from door-to-door sales, forced to register businesses, obtain permits, and pay taxes. They demanded a formal response within fourteen working days. Kathindi accepted their concerns, promising discussions with relevant officials to address unfair competition affecting Namibian livelihoods. The protest highlighted tensions over informal trade regulations in northern Namibia communities. Local authorities pledged a review of licensing enforcement protocols following the demonstration.
Vendors requested that foreign traders be barred from door-to-door sales, forced to register businesses, obtain permits, and pay taxes. They demanded a formal response within fourteen working days. Kathindi accepted their concerns, promising discussions with relevant officials to address unfair competition affecting Namibian livelihoods. The protest highlighted tensions over informal trade regulations in northern Namibia communities. Local authorities pledged a review of licensing enforcement protocols following the demonstration.
