Namibia's coastal waters are among the most productive in the world, due to the Benguela Current Upwelling System. This powerful oceanic current, is one of the world's major eastern boundary current systems. Winds and currents in the region drive cold nutrient-rich waters up from the deep to the surface. These nutrients nourish phytoplankton, forming the foundation of a thriving marine ecosystem. The Benguela Current, which flows along Namibia's entire coastline, features three upwelling cells. This unique combination of factors makes the region one of the world's most biologically abundant marine environments, supporting Namibia's economy and livelihoods.