03/08/2025
Mvula's journey of triumph
Maria David
JAPHET Mvula, a name now synonymous with entrepreneurial success in Oshakati, has defied expectations and carved his own destiny.
At 42, Mvula has not only established a thriving business, Truth Investment CC, but has also become a beacon of hope for the region's youth, proving that with determination, anyone can control their future.
For many, including those closest to him, it was believed that he would join the defence force. However, he embarked on a different journey β one that began in 2016.
To secure the initial capital for his venture, he made the difficult decision to sell his fleet of taxis and even his personal vehicle.
"I had taxis on the road and it was the most difficult decision I made. I sold my vehicle to get funds," he reflects.
"When I started, we were only three and we had rented a small office space at Oshakati West," he recalls.
Mvula's humble beginnings have today grown into a successful enterprise known as Truth Investment CC, with a team of 34 young Namibians aged between 25 and 42, all employed locally from Oshakati and its surrounding areas.
From a single rented room, Mvula now proudly owns a complex featuring nine office spaces β a tangible testament to his vision and perseverance.
His path to success, however, was far from smooth.
Mvula readily admits that growing up was fraught with difficulties, sometimes forcing him into desperate measures just to survive.
"Life was not easy, but I have managed to overcome my own struggle, learn from my mistakes, and change my life," he added.
Mvula also acknowledges the significant hurdles faced by new businesses, particularly in securing opportunities, saying that it's not easy to start a business β getting through tenders is very difficult, especially when starting from zero.
He explained that any investment is meaningless if it doesn't benefit the community.
"Once you have investment and the mass is not beneficial, it's like worth and yet remains useless in the hand of the beholder," he stresses.
Mvula offers crucial advice to aspiring young entrepreneurs: not to focus on temporary stuff, but rather on lasting investment.