Allexer Namundjembo
The municipality of Walvis Bay has introduced new rules for informal trading. The rules require all traders to register and obtain permits before operating in the town.
The regulations were published in a government gazette dated 23 March.
Under the new system, traders are not allowed to operate without registration and a valid permit from the council.
“A person may not conduct informal trading in the local authority area unless the person is registered to conduct informal trading under these regulations and is issued a permit,” the government gazette states.
The rules introduce different types of permits, including market trading, stalls, food carts, roaming vendors, temporary trading and special events.
Traders who want to operate for more than 90 days must apply to the council, submit identification and pay a non-refundable fee.
They must also obtain a fitness certificate before starting operations.
“An informal trader who is issued an informal trading permit must apply for a fitness certificate before conducting informal trading.”
The regulations also require traders to maintain cleanliness, follow safety rules and avoid blocking roads or public access.
The council can also decide where trading is allowed and where it is not.
“The council made designated areas for informal trading and declared any area in which informal trading is allowed.”
Authorities can impound goods from traders who do not follow the rules or operate without permits.
Offenders may face fines of up to N$5 000 or imprisonment of up to 12 months.
Foreign nationals must submit valid residence or work permits before being allowed to trade.
“A foreign national who wishes to conduct informal trading must submit a permanent residence permit or employment permit,” it reads.
The notice was signed by Walvis Bay mayor Johannes Shimbilinga.
The changes come as the town manages growth and rising informal trading activity.
Some traders have raised concerns about where they will be allowed to operate.
Frans Iipinge, who trades in the Walvis Bay CBD, said he hopes the council will allocate trading spaces near busy areas.
He said traders in other towns are often moved away from customers.
“Even yesterday (Tuesday), vendors in the Helao Nafidi town council were protesting, asking the council to construct another open market near customers’ centres,” he said.
He said many people depend on trading to survive.
“Trading must not be taken as an illegal thing. It even contributes to the town’s economic growth. It should be embraced rather than being taken as a form of pollution on the town,” he said.
Across towns such as Windhoek, Omuthiya and Swakopmund, informal trading remains a point of tension between regulation and livelihoods.
