Ruacana

Ruacana is a picturesque little town hugging the banks of the Kunene River in the northern Omusati region. The nearby Ruacana Hydroelectric Plant is the main reason for its existence. In 1988 the plant suffered severe damage due to a bomb strike from Cuban forces during the Angolan Civil War. It was only partially repaired and today, under the flagship of Nampower, the plant produces around 240 megawatts from its three turbines. Its other purpose, along with the Calueque Dam in Angola, is to provide irrigation water to the nearby projects. The government run Etunda farm nearby was opened in 1993 and produces maize, watermelons, wheat and other fresh produce. Ruacana doesn’t offer much in the eyes of tourism but does sport a filling station with a little shop and a nearby lodge.