Namibian entrepreneurs who run "order with me" businesses are watching their livelihoods wobble in real time. The wave of xenophobic attacks in South Africa has made trips to the neighbouring country feel too risky, and some traders have already pressed pause on cross-border runs entirely.
The "order with me" model works simply: traders travel to South Africa, shop on behalf of clients back home, and bring goods across the border. It is a hustle that thousands of Namibians depend on, both as buyers and sellers. When the route goes quiet, entire micro-economies feel it.
The situation has escalated enough that affected traders are scheduled to meet with the Prime Minister tomorrow. What comes out of that conversation could shape how the government responds to a crisis that is as much about economic survival as it is about safety.
Originally published by AllAfrica · info@newera.com.na (New Era).