Groundwater in arid regions can be found in various types of aquifers, of different depths and qualities. Shallow alluvial aquifers often present the most accessible reservoirs of the finest water quality. Increases in population, industry and standard of living have resulted in a constant increase in water demands. Overexploitation in excess of the natural replenishment rates has caused progressive lowering of groundwater levels followed by a severe deterioration in water quality. The main source of replenishment of alluvial aquifers in arid regions is floodwater infiltration through stream beds. KEYWORDS: Namibia, Namib Desert, Kuiseb River, riparian ecosystem, river basin management, ground water, surface water, hydrologic alteration, hydraulic conductance, applied technology, transmission losses, ephemeral river, soil moisture, water recharge, water resource management ACCESSION NUMBER: 551.48'688 TAT.