Traders dealing in traditional monkey oranges, locally known as omauni, are experiencing robust demand at the Stop and Shop trading complex in Windhoek, according to AllAfrica. Despite this strong market activity, the publication notes that the path to financial gain is lengthy for these sellers. The majority of these vendors originate from Rundu, with others traveling from Oshakati and various other northern regions to reach the capital market.
The journey from harvest to sale involves a complex and time-consuming process. Maria Mutango, a vendor from Rundu, detailed that the fruit is picked in the north and then kept for roughly two months to ripen before it is ready for market. Following this curing period, the produce is transported by bus to Windhoek. Mutango indicated that the cost of this transport is at least N$1,500, which covers her fare and her ten sacks of fruit, varying by the mode of transport chosen.
The financial return for such an investment is slow. Mutango stated that her net gain from selling ten sacks is approximately N$5,000, but the entire sales cycle spans two to three months. During this interim, vendors often reside in the market area. "This is where we stay and live after we arrive in Windhoek," Mutango said, noting that they sleep near their stock until it is completely sold. The income primarily funds household needs, including food, clothing, and school fees for their children.
Shipapo Marungu, a fellow trader, confirmed the high sales volume but highlighted the patience required. He noted that sellers must venture into the bush to find the fruit and maintain it at home until it is market-ready. Marungu described the wait for profit as three to four months, a period he characterized as difficult but necessary for the business to succeed. He added that the eventual earnings allow him to sustain his household.