Kakamas

Municipality

Municipality:
District Municipality:

Kakamas Tourism Bureau

Municipality of Kai! Garib
9 11th Avenue
Kakamas

Phone number: 054-431 -6300 / 054-431-0855
Fax: 054-431-0837

Kakamas is a Koranna word of which the meaning is uncertain. However two possible meanings might be linked to the word: raging cow, or bad pasture.

Attractions

Also see the neighbouring towns

Overshot water-wheels, adapted by Piet Burger from the ancient Egyptian design can be seen operating. The first hydro-electric power station in South Africa is located here, with its Egyptian design, and is now a museum.

History

Kakamas originated as at a place where the Gariep River could be relatively easily crossed. The spot was first known as Bassonsdrif. In 1898 a proper settlement was established and under the auspices of the Dutch Reformed Church the area was developed as an agricultural spot. It became a municipality in 1954.

Economy

Farming: Peaches, sultana vines, dried fruit

Acknowledgement

Some information supplied by Eugene Rautenbach.

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