Not only are essential workers missing out on quality time with their families, but so are some destitute, who rely on discarded food and other materials.

Those who live at the Swakopmund dumpsite go about their daily lives, hoping to gather more food given the festive season.

It's Family Day, but for the residents of Swakopmund who collect scrap material, it's an ordinary day, one they are still thankful for.

Running a scrap yard is a risky business as dealers could end up purchasing stolen goods.

nbc News reporter, July Nafuka, and cameraman Uushona Hiskia, spoke to two scrap yard dealers plying their trade in the city's Northern Industrial Area to find out what measures they have put in place to ensure they do not buy stolen scrap.

This is Sarel Scrap Metal Dealers, which has been in business for the past 15 years.

The company has four branches across Namibia and employs 80 people.