Namibia's westward-flowing ephemeral rivers flow for only short periods following heavy summer rains. Twelve major rivers, such as the Kuiseb which "flows" past Gobabeb, originate in the inland escarpment of western Namibia and drain towards the Atlantic. The upper reaches of most rivers run through commercial farmland passing onto communal farmlands, and finally into parks. Along their lengths, water and vegetation resources are extensively used by people, livestock and wildlife, and are important assets to Namibia, particularly for the agriculture and tourism sectors. Keywords: Namibia, Namib Desert, Kuiseb River, ephemeral rivers, river catchment, catchment management, river basin evolution, water resources.