OMUTHIYA OPEN MARKET DRAWS TRAVELLERS - nbc

The Omuthiya open market is an attraction for many northern travellers, making it one of the busiest stop-overs in the Oshikoto region. Travellers and commuters describe the open market as unique. The market is known for strong business activity, with traders selling different items, including traditional food, beverages and grilled meat. NBC News spoke to some travellers who say they always stop at the market before continuing to their next or final destination. "We love how people are trading, the way they cook their meat. There are so many choices here. I like buying doves and chicken and tender meat," said Elao Hangula.  Another traveller, Eliaser Eliaser, also has an appetite for meat. "Whenever I drive past here, I always buy cooked meat before my next destination. Freshly and well-cooked goat meat is delicious, and cooked meat is what I like most about this market."  Travellers say it is a place they cannot easily drive past without stopping by and prefer to stop due to the many options of goods and services available. Positioned between Oshivelo and Ondangwa, Omuthiya is a key transit stop for those travelling to northern villages and one of the last milestones before exiting the former Ovamboland.