Ruacana waterfall loses its lustre
The popular Ruacana waterfall in the Omusati region, the usual destination for holidaymakers, is no longer attracting a high number of visitors like previous years.
The chairperson of Omusati Regional Council Andreas Shintama stressed that the economic activities in the town have not picked up as has been the case over the years, and those who were hoping to capitalise on the opportunity were left disappointed.
“The waterfall’s popularity has declined over the years due to the minimal water flow, which is insufficient to give its majestic views, which serve as the main captivation,” he added.
Shintama, who is also the councillor for Ruacana constituency, added that the popular Hippo Pool, where the holidaymakers would normally spend time, is also deserted.
Ruacana is exactly at the borders of the political regions of Omusati and Kunene and it is centred where the Kunene River flows down from
Angola towards the Atlantic Ocean, demarcating Namibia from Angola.
The area around the falls is one of the most visited tourist attractions in Namibia.
It is not only the foreign visitors who find the natural beauty of the area mesmerising, but locals also find it worth a visit and admire the rare beauty of the falls.
Locals, especially from towns in northern Namibia often go to Ruacana during the festive seasons, public holidays, school holidays and was also once popular for wedding pictures.
The waterfalls also help NamPower to generate electricity through four turbines with a generation capacity of 347 megawatts.
According to Shintama, the waterfall is under the leadership of Uukwaluudhi Conservancy and is being managed by Ovahimba tribes.
“Back in the day, Ovahimba people used to generate income from the conservancy, particularly during the festival seasons,” he said.
The politician added that the conservancy is surrounded by a fence and the public used to pay N$10 per individual for entry.
“The regional council has approached various organisations to collaborate and fund the conservancy’s renovation and restore its charm,” he said.
He promised that the conversancy and the waterfall facilities will be renovated once the funds have been gathered.