Facelift for Usakos Engen biltong shop

Usakos residents are set for a lively day of activity later this week, when the town’s most popular service station launches its revamped butchery and biltong shop. Under new management since 2014, Engen One Stop Usakos has undergone a number of major alterations, not the least of which were a new design and the transformation of its adjacent biltong factory and shop. Strategically positioned on the Trans-Kalahari highway which runs through the town and connects it to Karibib and Arandis, the service station and biltong shop are popular stop-overs for both the local community and travellers passing through. Speaking on the work done ahead of Thursday’s grand opening, Engen One Stop Usakos managing member Irene Simeon-Kurtz said approximately N$350 000 went into the new biltong shop, while a further N$380 000 was spent on upgrading the facility’s rest rooms. Thursday’s opening is expected to be attended by a number of dignitaries, including Erongo Region Governor Cleophas Mutjivikua, National Planning Commission (NPC) Deputy Minister Lucia Iipumbu, and Usakos mayor Akser Mwafengeyo, as well as members of the local business community. Droëwors, chilli bites and biltong sold at the deli are all produced at the on-site factory, which currently employs 10 people. With additional products currently under discussion, management has indicated the possibility of adding up to five more employees. “Namibia produces and exports great quality meat. The factory and outlet adds value to the meat industry,” Simeon-Kurtz said at the weekend. “Many people love fresh deli food, (and) our products are local. We’ve added chicken chilli bites to our range, as we felt there is a niche for a new type of biltong for people looking for something special and varied.” DENVER ISAACS