Local entrepreneur makes a difference

A 34-year-old entrepreneur has dedicated her life to uplifting her community and bringing much-needed support to those in need.

From a young age, Ranciah Kooper Gaes had an immense passion for helping others. "As I grew up, this desire only intensified and I became more focused on assisting my community," she shared.

Now, as her own boss, she balances her responsibilities as a wife, mother, businesswoman and community leader, using these roles to make a difference.

Securing prepaid water access for the Saamstaan community is one of her noteworthy accomplishments. "In 2021, I intervened to help them fight for prepaid water and in July 2023, we finally got approval from the City of Windhoek, thanks to the support of Faniel Maanda, the acting CEO at that time," she said.

She further narrated how she has tirelessly worked to support the less fortunate in the Okapale informal settlement in Windhoek, providing clothing and food through sponsorship since 2022.

She also facilitated the repair of eight public toilets in Goreangab, which had been broken since 2021. "Seeing the gratitude and happiness of the residents makes all the hard work worth it.”

A community member - who did not want to be named - said: "We do not know how to show her our appreciation because we have nothing to offer her, but other Namibians should know there is a powerful woman in our country who feeds needy people from her kitchen".

Expanding her impact

Gaes dreams of expanding her impact. "I put God first above anything and trust His timing. My hopes and dreams are to get more sponsors to help me develop my community further. I'm planning to register a community centre that tackles social issues, like homelessness and drug addiction," she said.

As the eldest of five siblings, her leadership skills were nurtured from an early age. She said her work has not only positively influenced her life, but also connected her with numerous business people, enhancing her skills and reach as a leader.

"I feel proud and encouraged by the changes I have made in the community," she said. "I am also grateful to God for placing me in a position to help my fellow community members."

The entrepreneur said she is particularly touched by the recognition and trust she receives from the residents of the Samora Machel constituency. "I highly appreciate the fact that the community acknowledges the little that I do. In the same spirit, I humbly want to give a vote of thanks to the Samora Machel community for having me as their leader and trusting me."