Wake up with a visit to Penduka

Just a short drive from the bustle of central Windhoek, tucked away on the banks of Goreangab Dam, lies Penduka – a place that blends culture, creativity and community in the most inspiring way. More than simply a tourist stop, Penduka is a living, breathing project that empowers women through art, craft and enterprise, while offering visitors a chance to connect with Namibia’s people and traditions.

Penduka, which means “wake up” in Oshiwambo and Damara/Nama, lives up to its name. It is a social enterprise that helps women from disadvantaged backgrounds gain skills, confidence and financial independence. Through training and work in areas such as embroidery, batik, beadwork, pottery and jewellery-making, the women of Penduka are not only producing beautiful items but also changing their own lives and communities.

For visitors, that means every piece purchased, whether it’s a batik tablecloth, a hand-stitched cushion cover or a string of beads, carries a story of resilience and empowerment.



A feast for the senses

Penduka is not only about craft. Its restaurant, overlooking the tranquil Goreangab Dam, serves hearty Namibian dishes made with fresh ingredients, many grown in Penduka’s gardens. From traditional mahangu porridge to grilled meat or fresh vegetable dishes, the food is wholesome, local and delicious. A meal here is best enjoyed on the shaded terrace with the dam glittering in the background, a setting that makes you slow down and savour the moment.

What makes Penduka particularly special is the opportunity to roll up your sleeves and join in. Visitors can take part in workshops such as jewellery-making or batik painting, guided by the women themselves. These sessions are both fun and meaningful, giving you a chance to learn new skills and take home a handmade memento you created with your own hands. For children and families, Penduka now also has an educational playground built around the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals – a unique way to learn through play.



Sustainability in action

Penduka has taken big steps towards becoming greener and more self-sufficient. The installation of solar panels now powers much of the village, reducing costs and reliance on conventional electricity. Its flourishing gardens, where spinach, beetroot and herbs are grown, feed into the restaurant while encouraging women to start small gardens at home. These eco-friendly touches add to the sense that Penduka is forward-looking as well as deeply rooted in tradition.

More than anything, a visit to Penduka offers perspective. It is a place where creativity meets community spirit, where buying a souvenir helps support a family, and where visitors can experience Namibia not just as sightseers but as participants in a story of empowerment.

So, if you find yourself looking for something to do or an awesome outing, refreshing and full of colour, Penduka is well worth it. Come hungry for food, for art and connection.