Moçâmedes - The implementation of the ecotourism project in the Angolan southern province of Namibe, since 2024, is now a reality, six months after the introduction in the Fundão area, Caraculo locality, of 101 camels from the United Arab Emirates (UAE).
By Anabela Fritz, ANGOP journalists
Camels have adapted easily to the desert climate of Namibe and their number has been increasing, with 127 animals registering at this time, which will help to promote ecotourism in the region, in addition to the promotion and development of agriculture, as well as the production of meat and milk.
According to Francisco Felgueira, responsible for the Fundão zootechnical station, in Caraculo, a town that is 60 kilometers from the capital of the province, Moçâmedes, the project will also contribute to boosting the tourist industry and diversifying the economy in Namibe and in the country, in general.
The initiative arose within the framework of the public-private partnership between the Provincial Government of Namibe and the authorities of the United Arab Emirates, which, in addition to camel breeding, has the production of dates and fruits associated with the local climate, for the attraction and tourist promotion of this desert region.
Water holes were built at the site, with a submersible pump collection system and tanks with a gravity system with a capacity of more than 20 thousand liters of water.
Sorghum and forage grass were also planted experimentally to feed the animals, with the support of the Agricultural Research Institute.
Employment
The project has generated more than 20 jobs for young people, mainly from the community, whose adaptation to work is getting better and better, according to José Mbuale, one of the beneficiaries.
Benefits
The camel has a nutrient-rich meat and milk for human consumption.
The implementation of the project to breed this type of animal in Namibe will bring benefits to the development of the economy, with a focus on tourism and the diversification of agricultural production.
Arrival of the animals
The first batch of 101 camels, including four males, arrived in this province on June 13, 2024, constituting another tourist 'product' for the region.
Advantages
The introduction of camels in the desert can offer several advantages, given their natural adaptation to arid environments and their use for the efficient transport of people and goods in desert terrains such as those in the Caraculo area and the Iona Park.
They are able to travel great distances without the need for water or food and adapt easily to heat.
In the dry season, a characteristic phenomenon of the province, especially in the municipalities of Virei, Camucuio and Bibala, these animals are able to survive and provide milk in a normal way.
It should be noted that Namibe hosts, on Thursday, the III Ordinary Session of the Multisectoral Commission for the Safeguarding of World Cultural Heritage, to be guided by the Vice-President of the Republic, Esperança da Costa, who is in the province since today. FA/VC/DOJ
