In a historic occasion a young Oshakati resident was the first entrepreneur to open a mobile shop specialising in selling Shell lubricants for motor cars.
With the support of Vivo Energy Namibia/Shell Namibia, Pinehas Keendjele will be supplying motorists of Oshakati and those passing through the northern town with all types of engine oils at affordable prices.
Situated along the Okahao Road, the Model Shop was today officially opened by the Governor of Oshana Region Mr Elia Irimari. Also present at the occasion was the Deputy Mayor of Oshakati Ms Puyeipawa Eliphas, and the Deputy Commander of Oshana Police Theofelus Kamati.
Speaking on behalf of Vivo Energy Namibia Lubricants Sales Manager Riekert Eduan, Mr Patrik Kamulu said that supporting young entrepreneurs, especially those in the SME sector, is one of their objectives.
“Today we are here to support and uplift local SMEs. We understand the challenges faced by business owners and we are here to assist them in whatever way we can to make them operate in a profitable manner,” Kamulu said.
Oshana Governor Mr Elia Irimari thanked Shell Namibia for the support being given to the residents of Oshana region.
“I have to give thanks to Vivo Energy for the support you are providing to our region’s small businesses to help in the region’s development. Businesses create employment opportunities,” he stated.
“We have to thank Shell Helix for providing these types of container mobile shops so that our people work in there and eventually they become established businesses. This is an opportunity to earn a living.”
From the Police’s side Deputy Commissioner Kamati emphasized the importance of job creation and youth support as it helps the society in many ways.
“Our country requires all industries and sectors to create job opportunities. Many young people are struggling to find work to support themselves and their families,” he said.
As the mobile shop’s beneficiary, Keendjele said that having a business of this kind has always been his dream.
“Even as a kid I always wanted to work at a service station. Eventually I got trained as a fitter, work that has to do with oil products,” Keendjele said.
“I have no words, but only to thank you all for your support in making me create this business of high standards. These days there are many cars on our roads, this is why we now have this mobile shop where we make it easy for car owners to have easy access to our products.”
The Model Shop is the first of its kind in Oshakati, and the third in Namibia as there is only one in Windhoek and another in Tsumeb.
In the main photo: Governor of Oshana Elia Irimari cutting the ribbon signifying the official start of business for the Shell oil products mobile shop owned by Pinehas Keendjele.
