Himba Woman Along the Kunene River

"Many of the world's waterways sustain fascinating (and often threatened) indigenous cultures. For example, in the country of Namibia, along its border with Angola, the Himba people continue to live a traditional nomadic lifestyle—but their traditions and culture could be severely impacted by a proposed dam at Epupa Falls on the Kunene River.

"Most Himba are opposed to the dam because of its anticipated impacts on the environment and their culture. Unfortunately, the pressures of development and the uncertainty of their future is a plight that the Himba share with many of the world's indigenous people. Consequently, there's a need for all countries to ensure that cultural values and the needs of aboriginal people are adequately considered before any new dam is approved or funded. International lending agencies must also play a much greater role than they have in the past in ensuring that this is the case." Mark Angelo

For the past four decades river conservationist Mark Angelo has traveled on hundreds of the world's waterways, including the storied Nile, Mekong, Amazon, and Yangtze. Many of his travels and experiences are highlighted in his new Riverworld presentation that premiered in Vancouver on September 25, and which will be held in other North American cities in coming months.

Celebrating the International Year of Fresh Water, Riverworld focuses on river travel, the threats confronting rivers, and the plight of many river-based indigenous people and cultures throughout the world.

Angelo is the head of the Fish, Wildlife, Recreation Department at the British Columbia Institute of Technology and is an Order of Canada recipient for his river conservation efforts.
Read an interview with Mark Angelo >>
Visit the Riverworld Web site >>

Stunning photography from around the world. Click here to subscribe to National Geographic magazine.