# Cunene River

> river in Southern Africa

**Wikidata**: [Q320649](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q320649)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cunene_River)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/cunene-river

## Summary
The Cunene River is a major river in Southern Africa, forming part of the border between Angola and Namibia. It originates in Angola and flows through both countries before reaching the Atlantic Ocean, playing a key role in the region's geography and ecosystems.

## Key Facts
- **Location**: Flows through Angola and Namibia in Southern Africa.
- **Aliases**: Also known as Kunene River.
- **Coordinates**: Approximately latitude -17.2494, longitude 11.7533.
- **Notable Features**: Forms the border between Angola and Namibia.
- **Associated Waterfalls**: Part of the Cunene River system includes:
  - Ruacana Falls (in Namibia)
  - Epupa Falls (on the border of Angola and Namibia)
- **Length and Basin**: The river is a significant transboundary watercourse in the region, though exact length is not specified in the source.
- **Wikipedia Title**: Cunene River
- **Wikidata Description**: River in Southern Africa
- **Sitelink Count**: 53

## FAQs
**What is the Cunene River?**  
The Cunene River is a river in Southern Africa that flows along the border between Angola and Namibia. It is a transboundary watercourse that plays a significant role in the regional hydrology and ecosystems of both countries.

**Where is the Cunene River located?**  
The Cunene River flows through Angola and Namibia. It originates in Angola and forms part of the border between the two countries before eventually reaching the Atlantic Ocean.

**What are the major waterfalls associated with the Cunene River?**  
The Cunene River is associated with two major waterfalls: Ruacana Falls, located in Namibia, and Epupa Falls, which lies on the border between Angola and Namibia.

**What is the alternative name for the Cunene River?**  
The Cunene River is also known as the Kunene River.

**What is the significance of the Cunene River in Angola and Namibia?**  
The river serves as a natural border between Angola and Namibia and supports important ecological systems. It also contributes to the hydrological resources of both countries.

**What are the coordinates of the Cunene River?**  
The approximate coordinates of the Cunene River are latitude -17.2494 and longitude 11.7533.

## Why It Matters
The Cunene River is a vital transboundary river in Southern Africa, forming a natural border between Angola and Namibia. It supports the regional hydrological system and contributes to the ecological stability of the area. The river is also culturally and environmentally significant, particularly in the context of the local communities and ecosystems that depend on it. Its association with notable waterfalls like Epupa Falls and Ruacana Falls makes it a key geographic feature in the region.

## Notable For
- **Transboundary Significance**: The river forms a key part of the border between Angola and Namibia.
- **Natural Border**: It serves as a natural demarcation line between two sovereign nations.
- **Waterfalls**: Associated with two major waterfalls:
  - Epupa Falls, located on the Angola-Namibia border
  - Ruacana Falls, located in Namibia
- **Geographic Feature**: It is a major river in Southern Africa, contributing to the region's drainage basin.
- **Ecological Importance**: Supports diverse ecosystems along its course.
- **Alternative Name**: Also referred to as the Kunene River.

## Body

### Geography and Location
The Cunene River is a significant river in Southern Africa. It flows through both Angola and Namibia, forming part of the international border between the two countries. The river originates in Angola and continues southward, eventually reaching the Atlantic Ocean. Its approximate coordinates are latitude -17.2494 and longitude 11.7533. The river plays a crucial role in the hydrology of the region, contributing to the water resources of both Angola and Namibia.

### Associated Waterfalls
The Cunene River is linked to two major waterfalls:
- **Epupa Falls**: Located on the border between Angola and Namibia, this waterfall is a shared natural feature of both countries.
- **Ruacana Falls**: Situated entirely within Namibia, this waterfall is part of the river's course as it flows through the region.

These waterfalls are not only scenic landmarks but also important for the local ecosystems and tourism.

### Political and Geographic Context
The Cunene River is a transboundary river, meaning it crosses international borders. It serves as a natural boundary between Angola and Namibia. This makes it a point of interest for both countries in terms of water resource management and environmental cooperation. The river's basin supports various ecological zones and is a vital part of the regional drainage system.

### Cultural and Environmental Importance
The river supports local communities and ecosystems along its banks. Its waters are essential for agriculture, wildlife, and human settlements in the arid regions of both Angola and Namibia. The presence of waterfalls like Epupa and Ruacana adds to the river's ecological and touristic value.

### Nomenclature
The river is also known as the Kunene River, reflecting its dual identity in the local and international context. This alternative name is used in various references and databases, including Wikidata.

### Related Entities
- **Angola**: The country of origin for the river, where it begins its course.
- **Namibia**: The river flows along the border and into the territory of Namibia.
- **Ruacana Falls** and **Epupa Falls**: Key geographic features directly associated with the river.

These connections highlight the river's role in the broader geographic and political landscape of Southern Africa.

## References

1. [Source](https://github.com/JohnMarkOckerbloom/ftl/blob/master/data/wikimap)
2. Freebase Data Dumps. 2013
3. GeoNames
4. BabelNet
5. National Library of Israel Names and Subjects Authority File