Cuanza River

The Kwanza River, also known as the Coanza, the Quanza, and the Cuanza, is one of Angola's longest rivers. It empties into the Atlantic Ocean just south of Luanda, the country's capital. The river is navigable for approximately 150 miles (240 kilometers) from its mouth, which is located 60 kilometers (37 miles) south of Luanda. The Cutato and Lucala were among its tributaries.

The navigable lower course of the river was the original route of Portugal's invasion into northern Angola.

In 2004, the Capanda Dam in Malanje Province was completed, providing hydroelectric power to the region and assisting with irrigation. The Cambambe Hydroelectric Power Station is also located on the river, and the Lauca Dam is currently under construction. The river's mouth, Barra do Kwanza, is gradually being developed for tourism, including a golf course.

According to research published on the Science and Development Network website, the Angolan river has a high biodiversity. So far, Angola's first biodiversity survey of the Kwanza River has discovered 50 fish species. Genetic testing, according to researchers from the National Fishing Research Institute and the South African Institute for Aquatic Biodiversity, may reveal new species. Tarpon is a sportfishing species.

Length: 960 km (600 mi)