Gobabeb Open Day 14 May:

Values of the Namib
05/05/2011

Not only is the Namib the oldest desert in the world but is also the only desert in the world to have spawned the name of a sovereign country. In its 80 million year-old existence the latter is however a mere wink of an eye. Yet it precisely the existence and the riches of the Namib, as a biosphere and a by and large intact ecosystem, that stand at the centre of this year's Open Day at Gobabeb on Saturday May 14. This year, an unusual highlight will be a demonstration concerning radiation safety as part of the implementation of the Strategic Environmental Management Plan addressing the Uranium Rush in the central Namib. The purpose of Open Day is to invite the public to experience the displays and demonstrations of the programmes and activities of the Gobabeb Centre and its partners. Gobabeb Training and Research Centre is nearly 50 years old, the research unit having been established in 1962. Since then scientists from all over the world have conducted research related to arid ecology, biological sciences, earth sciences and social investigations mainly pertaining to the local Topnaar people. Currently there are exciting projects in restoration ecology, climate change and solar energy, among others. Scholars and students from Namibia and elsewhere in the world come to Gobabeb to be involved in research and environmental education projects. The Centre itself has been identified to monitor biodiversity and tourism in the central Namib in relation to the Uranium Rush.

Situated a mere 2 hour drive from Walvis Bay or a weekend trip away for the family from Windhoek, the research centre is nestled picturesquely against a bow of the Kuiseb river, currently running for the 192th consecutive day. A day visit will set you back N$ 50 per adult, while children under 12 come for free. Overnight camping under the acacias on the sparkling white riverbanks of the Kuiseb will set you back N$150 with a free evening entertainment programme thrown in. Apart from a sundowner concert overlooking the Kuiseb and backset by the red Namib dunes, the evening will feature performances by the Atlantic Singers from Walvis Bay and Organic Groove from Windhoek, as well as a fire-poi show by the Muzensa Capoeira. An African drumming circle will be facilitated later around the main Camp fire with drums provided by Ongoma. Special programmes will be available for children, Twenty Questions and a Treasure Hunt for visitors of all ages and the Ongoma drummers to add spice to the day. Other events will include demonstrations of solar cooking - with the results available for sampling - a demonstration of !Nara fruit preparation as well as guided nature