Lighting up the Garden Town

He might be considered a thorn in many a resident’s side in the Garden Town, but Alcino Da Costa is without a doubt a businessman of note and considered by friend and foe as “the heartbeat of Okahandja”. Alcino, also known as Shorty of Witraak (don’t ask him why), runs a tight ship. His brutal honesty and iron will might offend sensitive souls but in the end it’s all with reason – to provide top quality service and products.

Spending ten minutes on the premises of Okahandja Electrical Services and Wholesale is better than watching a soapie.

Customers will be drawn into a mix of light banter and heated arguments, be the subjects of stern advice on prudent spending and at the same time be invited for coffee. Before moving to Okahandja in 1968, Shorty, a qualified electrician, lived and worked “all over the Namibia”. After 44 years he is still in love with the Garden Town. “This is my town” he says, “dirty or not dirty, development or no development.”

He is well known not only in Okahandja but, all over Namibia. Not only has he done major electrical work at schools, Government projects, private sector and corporate institutions, he also built the FNB building in Okahandja. Mr. Da Costa, an ardent supporter of the Portugal national soccer team as well as FC Porto, has also on countless occasions sponsored sporting events around the country.

Yes, I am known for my Portuguese temper but my motto in life is to work, work, work and to be fair. And I am proud to say that I worked very, very, hard all my life to reap the benefits now. I am also one of the people who helped to “raise” Okahandja – for better or for worse.” Shortly still has many plans for his beloved town but remains tight-lipped on what exactly he has in mind. “I am tired,” he admits with a grin, “but not tired enough to retire ye.”