History 

Calueque Dam was built between 1972 and 1974, in the municipality of Ombadja in Cunene Province, more specifically in the bed of the Cunene River.

It was built to respond to various problems of a diverse nature, such as: electricity, irrigation and public water distribution Angola and to the north of the neighbor Republic of Namibia.

Among the main objectives that guide the construction of the dam, the following stand out:

• To promote the fluvial regulation of Cunene;
• Optimization of the production of the hydroelectric power station associated with the Ruacaná dam;
• Water storage for domestic use and development of Cunene,
• Storage and transfer of water to the north of the Republic of Namibia.

Called Calueque-Oshakati Water Scheme, this process consists of feeding a large irrigation and supply scheme for human consumption centered on the Olushandja Dam.

The Calueque dam is certainly one of the great impulses for the development of the province of Cunene, as it strongly contributes to the irrigation that covers 90 000 hectares of agricultural land.

Main attractions

The large concrete structure with built-in hydraulic bodies, built over the Cunene River, is 20 meters high and 2600 meters long.

In addition to its great utility, the dam is a place that has been providing a lot of leisure for both the local population and the visitors, whether for the beautiful natural landscapes, the wide variety of birds, flowers and animals.

The surrounding greenery, the practices of the resident population, the water lilies around the river, the herd of oxen belonging to local producers who drink water in the vicinity of the river, provide a truly incredible environment.

In addition, there is a small beach on the left bank of the river, which concentrates hundreds of people looking for fun and others who practice fishing (a very common practice in the region).

On the opposite bank (right) it is possible to contemplate a wide variety of ruins of colonial-era houses, belonging to the first populations of Calueque, even before the construction of the dam in 1972-74.

be sure to visit

The most incredible thing about visiting the Calueque Dam is not only the beautiful landscapes and the peace of mind that the place offers.

Much of the leisure is provided by the history of Calueque and the great importance and impact that the dam and the river have on the lives of the population, who essentially live from fishing, agriculture and livestock.

Visiting the Calueque Dam is synonymous with pure leisure, where fun is associated with knowledge, about the population, the importance of the dam and the river for the local population.

This is one of the places you cannot miss visiting.