Omaramba River
The Omaramba River is situated about five kilometers from Tsintsabis in Namibia. This river only flows when there is heavy rainfall, as the name 'omaramba' also stands for dry river bed. The river has almost no organic life in it due to its fluctuating water levels. The river banks are filled with rows of Camelthorn and Acacia trees which provide shade to the surrounding animals and bushmen who live in the area.
Bushmen
The main towns in which the bushmen live in Namibia are Tsintsabis and Tsumkwe near the sand valley "Boesmanland". Near the Omaramba river is a large village with a community of Bushmen which mostly depend on the river's resources. These people have very little money, and unfortunately are very secluded from the rest of society so they must buy most things at a very high price due to travel costs. Fortunately once or twice every year during heavy rainfall the bushmen have the chance to gather water (as Tsintsabis is a very dry and hot place) and also catch fish, although preservation can sometimes be an issue. The most abundant fish is the "Barbel."
Barbel
The Barbel is the most abundant fish in the area, this is due to its amazing ability to burrow under muddy ground to keep itself safe from the harsh air and sun when the river is not flowing.
Tourism
The Omaramba river has become a big tourist attraction, where many people go for a relaxing day trip. One can barbecue on the banks of the Omaramba, and due to the lack of crocodiles, it is a safe place to swim.
When visiting the Omaramba be sure to go during the rainy season, because this is the only time at which the river is visible. Also, be wary of it being too high, as the water at this time can be contaminated, and you could get a nasty bacterial infection. [1]
References
- ↑ Omaramba river information in the Namibian Getaway