People

The peoples of the riparian countries of the Kunene River basin represent a range of ethnic groups with a wealth of traditions, beliefs, knowledge and stories.

Chapter Summary

This chapter covers the following concepts and material relevant to the peoples of the basin:

• A brief History of the two riparian states and a historical outline of Hydropolitics in the Basin;
• Some perspectives on Cultural Diversity concentrating on the distribution of the ethnic groups within the basin;
• The integration of Traditional Knowledge into modern water management and water related Stories including interviews, fables and poems; and
• An overview of the linkages between Culture and Water in the basin, exploring traditional ways of life and Beliefs and Rites related to water.

Himba craftsmanship in making jewellery is just one expression of the rich culture in the Kunene basin.

Source: iStock / Brytta 2009

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