The Benguela Current is a major cold ocean current that flows north and strongly affects Namibia’s coastal environment. It is an important part of the South Atlantic subtropical gyre and plays a role in Namibia’s dry climate, sea life, and fishing industry.
The current starts in the Antarctic and brings cold, nutrient-rich water to Namibia’s coast, helping to support a rich ecosystem.
Here are some fun facts about the Benguela Current:
- Blow me away: The cold water cools the air, which stops it from rising above the ocean. This creates a steady southwest wind that blows at speeds between 16 and 40 km/h.
- Down by the river: The Benguela Current is a direct reason for the Namib Desert. The cold Benguela flow passes close to the Namibian coast because of seamounts under the Atlantic Ocean. This causes very little rain and a dry coastal climate.
- A fisherman’s dream come true: The Benguela Current is full of oxygen, zooplankton, and other nutrients, which attract large groups of fish. Because of this, South Africa and Namibia have some of the best fishing areas in the world.
- Soon to be a UNESCO World Heritage Site?: The Benguela Current has a very special sea life system that has caught the interest of many scientists. It may soon become a UNESCO World Heritage Site, as it has been added to the tentative list.
- A safe haven: The Benguela Current supports many marine animals like large groups of Cape fur seals, whales, and the rare Heaviside’s dolphin. About 70% of the world’s Heaviside’s dolphin population lives along the Namibian coast.
- Islands in the stream: Many sea birds live on the coastal islands such as Mercury Island, Ichaboe, Halifax, and Possession Island. These include Cape Gannets, the endangered African Penguin, and Crowned Cormorants. Mercury Island, which is about three hectares in size, is home to about 16,000 penguins, 1,200 Cape Gannets, and 5,000 cormorants.
- A bird’s-eye view: The Mercury and Ichaboe islands are home to nearly 80% of the world’s endangered cormorant species. These birds travel long distances to find food before returning to their islands.
Check out our 4-day Coast Sandwich Harbour Tour.
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