Tombua

Tombua

Tômbua, previously known as Porto Alexandre, is a town and municipality in Angola, in the province of Namibe. Located in the southwestern part of the country, Tômbua is situated approximately 1,200 kilometers south of the capital city, Luanda. Historically, Tômbua was an important trading center during the Portuguese colonial era, with the Portuguese establishing a fort and a settlement in the area in the 19th century. The town's strategic location made it an ideal hub for the export of goods such as ivory, rubber, and wax, which were abundant in the region. The Portuguese also introduced Christianity to the area, and the town's cathedral, built in the early 20th century, remains a prominent landmark to this day. In terms of economy, Tômbua's main industries are fishing, agriculture, and tourism. The town's fishing industry was well established, with a large fleet of fishing boats operating out of the harbor. The surrounding waters were rich in marine life, with species such as sardines, mackerel, and tuna being abundant, but as of 2019, fishing harvests are declining. Tourism is a growing sector, with visitors drawn to the town's rich history, cultural heritage, and natural beauty. Despite its many attractions, Tômbua still faces several challenges, including poverty, unemployment, and a lack of access to basic services such as healthcare and sanitation. However, with its rich history, cultural heritage, and natural beauty, the town has the potential to become a major tourist destination and economic hub in the region.