More than 300 job seekers in Opuwo gathered outside OK Foods, submitting CVs for positions at the soon-to-open OK MegaSave store.
The retail outlet is expected to employ over 30 staff members once it officially opens, sparking high interest in a town where unemployment remains a major challenge. It has also renewed hope for many families.
Long queues stretched outside the supermarket from early morning, as hundreds of residents arrived with CVs in hand, each one hoping to secure one of the limited job opportunities.
For many, this moment represents more than just a job application; it is a chance to change their lives.
General Manager of OK Foods and MegaSave Opuwo Abel van Vuuren explained.
"We have a lot of vacancies basically because we are starting from scratch, so it's a whole new shop, and the positions available are for cashiers, merchandising store room and receiving, cleaners, butchery assistance, fast food assistance, bakery assistance, fruit and vegetable assistance, security officers, floor managers and admin clerks."
He said the upcoming store will create employment opportunities for more than 30 local residents, as part of its expansion into the Opuwo community.
But with over 300 applicants competing for fewer than 50 positions, many say the demand reflects the deep level of unemployment in the town.
Job seekers described the situation as a reminder of the urgent need for more employment opportunities.
"I am currently looking for a job because here staying at home relaxing, there is no need to be there to sleep, or maybe perhaps you must go out and look for the job, see where the opportunities are, and maybe management staff like that," noted Shatipamba Kosimasa.
"We came to look for employment; we were told there are open posts here. That's what made us queue up here," added Kauritarerua Akuenye.
Despite the long queues and hours of waiting, applicants remained patient and hopeful, holding onto the belief that this opportunity could mark the beginning of a better future.
As recruitment continues, many residents say even a small number of jobs brings a sense of hope to households struggling with unemployment in Opuwo.