The Area.

Simanya is located in Nkurenkuru which is a town found in the Kavango Province of Namibia. It is located in the Northern parts of the country and has a total population of approximately 8 000 residents. This town is situated near the Kavango River and also the town of Cuangar in Angola. These two towns are linked via a border post.

The name Nkurenkuru means “the old place” and this is derived from the history of the Kwangali people who are the native inhabitants of this area. This town became the base for the South African Defence Force during the Angolan Civil War.
The distance from Nkurenkuru to Namibia's capital Windhoek  is approximately 568 km / 353 mi (as the crow flies).

The People and Villages.

The Bantu-speaking Kavango people, who are the main inhabitants of the area, comprise six different tribes. 
The villages around the Nkurenkuru area in Namibia's Kavango West region are deeply rooted in tradition and culture, offering a glimpse into the rural lifestyle of the Kavango people. These villages are typically composed of thatched-roof huts arranged in family compounds, reflecting the communal living that is central to their way of life.

Agriculture is the mainstay of these communities, with subsistence farming being a common occupation. Residents grow crops such as millet, maize, and sorghum, and keep livestock including cattle, goats, and chickens. The fertile banks of the Kavango River support irrigation, making farming viable even during dry seasons.

Cultural heritage is rich in these villages, with traditional dances, music, and ceremonies playing a significant role in daily life. The Kavango people are known for their skilled craftsmanship, particularly in basket weaving, pottery, and wood carving, which are both functional and artistic..

Although there are male and female members of the lineage, only females can be used to trace the line of ancestry. This implies that a man's hereditary political position will pass to his sister's eldest son rather than to his own offspring. 

The Kavango River.

Etosha.

Etosha National Park in Namibia is one of Africa's premier wildlife reserves, offering an unforgettable safari experience. Established in 1907, the park spans over 22,000 square kilometers and is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including the Big Five—lion, leopard, rhinoceros, elephant, and buffalo. One of its most distinctive features is the Etosha Pan, a vast, saline desert that covers about 25% of the park. During the rainy season, the pan fills with water, attracting thousands of flamingos and other bird species. Etosha's well-maintained waterholes provide excellent game-viewing opportunities, making it a favorite destination for photographers and wildlife enthusiasts. The park also boasts a rich history and cultural significance, with ancient San rock art and traditional Himba communities nearby, adding depth to the visitor experience. Etosha National Park is 291 km from Simanya, making it a perfect roadtrip destination.

The Kavango River in the Nkurenkuru area is a vital waterway that shapes the landscape and life of this part of Namibia. Flowing from the Angolan highlands, the river meanders through the Kavango West region, providing a lush, green contrast to the surrounding savanna. Nkurenkuru, the regional capital, sits on the banks of the Kavango River, making it a central hub for local communities. 

It begins at an elevation of 1,300 metres (4,300 ft) in the sandy highlands of Angola. Farther south, it forms part of the border between Angola and Namibia, and then flows into Botswana. The Okavango does not have an outlet to the sea and stretches for 1600km.

Its rich biodiversity includes a variety of fish species, birds, and other wildlife, making it a focal point for both subsistence and recreational activities. Additionally, the Kavango River is integral to the cultural identity of the Kavango people, with many traditional practices and rituals centered around its waters.

Katwitwe.

Katwitwe is a small village in northern Namibia's Kavango West region, rich in cultural heritage and home to diverse ethnic groups, including the Kavango people. Located near the Kavango River, the community relies on subsistence farming and fishing. Despite its traditional way of life, Katwitwe faces challenges in accessing basic services like healthcare, education, and infrastructure.
The Katwitwe Border Post is a key crossing point between Namibia and Angola in the Kavango West region. It plays a crucial role in local trade and facilitates the movement of people and goods. Although the facilities are modest, the border post is vital for managing immigration, customs, and security. Enhancements to infrastructure and services here are essential for boosting economic activities and connectivity between the two countries.

Angolan Border at
Nkurenkuru.

On the opposite river bank of Nkurenkuru, north-eastern banks of the river lies Cuangar in Angola and the two towns are linked via the nearby Nkurenkuru-Port Cuangar border post. This port was officially opened jointly by the Namibian and Angolan government during the Covid-19 pandemic, since all other borders were closed.
Local Namibians and Angolan pedestrians utilise this unauthorised border crossing to go between the two nations. There is no immigration or customs control at official border crossings.
Angolans cross daily to sell products in Nkurenkuru and return late in the afternoons. This crossing is crucial for both Angolans and the local inhabitants of Nkurenkuru to trade, which positively affects the economic situation of the two countries

The B10 and B15.

The B10 and B15 are notable highways in Namibia, each serving as crucial links in the country's road network. 
B10 Highway:
The B10 highway runs through the Kavango regions in northern Namibia, connecting the town of Rundu to Divundu. This scenic route follows the Kavango River, providing travelers with picturesque views of the lush riverine landscape. The B10 is vital for local communities, facilitating the transport of goods and people and promoting regional trade. It also serves as a key access route to the Bwabwata National Park, offering opportunities for wildlife viewing and eco-tourism.
B15 Highway:
The B15 highway, also known as the Trans-Kalahari Highway, stretches across the eastern part of Namibia. It connects the town of Gobabis near the Botswana border to Windhoek, the capital city. This route is part of the larger Trans-Kalahari Corridor, which links Namibia, Botswana, and South Africa, enhancing trade and economic cooperation among these countries. The B15 is essential for long-distance travelers and freight transport, providing a direct and efficient path through Namibia's diverse landscapes, from arid savannas to bustling urban centers.

The Trees.

The Kavango West area is home to a diverse array of tree species, each contributing to the region's unique ecosystem. From towering Baobabs to the resilient African teak trees, the flora of Kavango West plays a crucial role in supporting local wildlife and maintaining the ecological balance. The trees not only provide shelter and food for various animals but also offer resources for local communities.

For more detailed information about the trees in Kavango West, click the link below to download a comprehensive PDF guide.
Tree Atlas of Namibia

Welcome to Nkurenkuru, a vibrant hub in Namibia’s Kavango West Region. Nestled by the Kavango River, this area blends rich cultural heritage with stunning natural beauty. Explore lush landscapes, engage with friendly locals, and experience the essence of Namibian life.