The ancient and contemporary sand deserts south
of the Kuiseb have geomorphological characteristics
that provide much information about aeolian
dynamics. Moreover, the far-reaching research
around the Gobabeb Research and Training Centre
into the Namib Sand Sea in particular has provided
the basis for 30 000 km2 of this landscape to be
designated as aWorld Heritage Site with one of the
criteria being ‘ viii: an outstanding example representing
major stages of earth’s history, significant
on-going geological processes in the development
of land forms, and significant geomorphic and
physiographic features’. As a consequence, geomorphological
and geological research opportunities
been broadly increased and the potential for
dissemination of relevant information and interpretations
has been enhanced.