Crocheting change: Rundu teacher’s creative hustle

After graduating in 2021, Martha Simaho found herself in a situation familiar to many Namibian youth – educated but unemployed. With the job market offering few options, she turned to the one thing she could rely on: her hands.Armed with nothing but creativity and determination, Simaho began crocheting and beading traditional and modern pieces to support herself. “I started putting more effort into this thing I do – the beading and crochet. It kept me going because I could get money to buy what I needed,” she told Ewi lyaNooli in an interview yesterday.Her handmade creations range from clothing for newborns, beanies and socks as well as adult sweaters, skirts, flower pots and traditional giya – known as sihiho in Kavango culture.The time and skill needed vary depending on size and complexity. “If I’m not busy, I can complete a big sweater in under four days,” she explained. “But if it’s during school days, it takes longer.”Juggling two passions Born and raised in Rundu, Simaho graduated with a diploma in 2021. Earlier this year, she completed her degree, which she had worked towards while supplementing her income through her crocheting and beading business.Earlier this year, Simaho was pleased to find full-time work as a teacher, but she hasn’t abandoned her passion. Balancing both takes discipline.“After work, I still have to come home and prepare for the next day at school. So, I mostly crochet on weekends unless I get time during the week,” she shared.The business is gradually growing. “Back then, I’d get one customer a month. Now, at least one or two a week,” she said. Baby items and ruffled hats are currently in high demand – likely due to the winter chill.But the road has not been bump-free.Material costs are high, and clients often underestimate the time and labour involved. “Wool is expensive. A sweater can cost over N$300 in materials alone, but some still think N$500 is too much,” Simaho lamented.Still, she remains committed to empowering others. “To unemployed graduates, I offer crochet lessons and even help them price their work. It’s better than sitting at home doing nothing,” she said.

Crocheting change: Rundu teacher’s creative hustle

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Namibian Sun 2025-10-28

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Crocheting change: Rundu teacher’s creative hustle

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Namibian Sun 2025-10-28

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