The Ministry of Industrialisation and Trade (MIT) will continue to support efforts that stimulate entrepreneurial development, enhance economic activities, and empower small and medium enterprises.

The ministry handed over a sewer pump, replaced septic tanks at Henties Bay's Omdel Location, and facilitated the ground-breaking for a taxi rank and open market for N$1 million.

Industrialisation and Trade Minister Lucia Iipumbu pointed out that the open market will provide vendors conducive space to conduct their businesses and ensure that residents and tourists alike have easy access to goods and services at a central point.

Iipumbu says the informal sector continues to play a vital role in the economy and helps address the lack of access to adequate and proper infrastructure.

"We must therefore ensure that this market is not just a structure but also a thriving hub of economic activity. I thus urge the local authorities to ensure proper management and maintenance of this facility, creating an environment for business growth. Vendors must also take ownership of this space, treating it as their place of business, pride, and livelihood."

The Ministry has also developed the informal economy Start-Ups and Entrepreneurship Policy to streamline the operations of the informal sector.

The Deputy Minister of Urban and Rural Development, Evelyn !Nawases-Taeyele, said as the world evolves and globalisation accelerates, local authorities must adapt across all sectors. 

"For too long have residents of Henties Bay dealt with the challenges posed by outdated septic tanks and vacuum sewer systems, which threatened both public health and our precious water resources. These systems were not only environmentally damaging but also economically burdensome. The increasing population and development have underscored the urgent need for improved wastewater management systems to safeguard public health and ensure environmental protection."

She further said that to address the challenges of population growth and meet the demands of the residents, the Municipality of Henties Bay has launched a transformative initiative to replace the outdated septic tanks.

Lewies Vermaak, the Mayor of Henties Bay, said, "A town that is striving where every individual has access to opportunity and where our local economy can flourish through the hard work and business spirit of our people. We are proud of the initiative in line with our broader goal of enhancing infatuate promotion of local enterprises and creating jobs."