Africa-Press – Namibia. Johannes Niimwene started his career in cleaning services in 2005 when he worked for Clean Master in Oshakati for nine months.
In 2006, armed with only motivation in the form of financial challenges and a family to feed, he decided to establish his own company.
“I realised that the salary I was earning was not enough to take me to the standard of living I wanted,” Niimwene said.
With a loan of N$2 000 borrowed from his grandmother, he purchased a second-hand vacuum cleaner costing N$1 200, along with a few buckets, detergents and cleaning cloths.
“I convinced one of my brothers to join me, and together they began offering cleaning services in Oshakati and Ongwediva, walking door to door in search of clients,” he added.
“The beginning was not easy because people did not trust us,” he recalled. “But we remained committed and patient.”
Today, he owns a cleaning service company well known as Mirror Cleaning Service CC.
Today, Mirror Cleaning Service CC provides a wide range of services, including general cleaning of offices and houses, sofas and mattress cleaning, carpet cleaning, car interior deep cleaning, pest control and cleaning training.
The company now owns a vehicle, a fully equipped workshop and the necessary cleaning equipment and materials, enabling it to deliver services to several towns across the country.
“Although I did not receive formal training, I gained practical experience through on-the-job training at Clean Master and expanded my knowledge through self-study using books,” he said.
He emphasised the importance of hygiene, saying it is essential for maintaining a healthy and happy life. “Clean environments improve our wellbeing and overall quality of life,” he said. As part of giving back to the community, Niimwene also provides cleaning training to others who wish to join the industry. He believes many people cannot afford professional cleaning services, while many public and private spaces remain unhygienic despite having full-time cleaners.
“My goal is to share my experience and uplift cleaning standards in Namibia,” he said.
Niimwene said his business has given him financial independence and a renewed sense of purpose.However, challenges remain. Niimwene noted that some clients struggle to pay for services, often underestimating the cost of labour, equipment and cleaning materials.
“In an independent country, anyone can start a business of their choice. Work hard, be patient and honest, and avoid excessive loans,” he urged his fellow youth. Niimwene is based in Oshakati West.
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