History and maritime enthusiasts are in for a treat as the East London Museum prepares to host an illustrated talk on the newly established Namibia Maritime Museum – a world-class addition to Southern Africa’s cultural landscape.
The event will take place on Wednesday April 15, at 6pm in the Marjorie Courtenay-Latimer Hall, with free entry open to all members of the public.
The talk will be presented by renowned marine biologist Prof Mike Bruton, with a brief introduction by Dr A Tordesillas.
Bruton trained as a marine and freshwater biologist and ecologist, conducting research across Southern and Central Africa, Western Europe, the Middle East, North America, and Southeast Asia.
He is widely celebrated for his contributions to ichthyology [scientific study of fish] and aquatic biology. His research has focused on the coelacanth species, aquatic conservation, and environmental education.
Over the years, he has authored more than 29 books and published over 120 peer-reviewed scientific papers.
His work has earned him prestigious honours, including the Marloth Medal from the Royal Society of SA, recognising his lifetime contribution to science and education.
Coelacanths, one of Bruton’s key research interests, were long believed to have gone extinct about 65 million years ago until a living specimen was discovered off SA’s coast in 1938.
Since then, they have also been found near Indonesia and the Comoros Islands.
These rare fish are known for their unique anatomy, including limb-like fins and a distinctive lobe-shaped tail.
Drawing on striking visuals from the museum, the presentation will explore the rich and often dramatic maritime history of Lüderitz.
Topics will include shipping, the fishing and sealing industries, guano and diamond mining, whaling, coastal life, as well as marine biology and conservation.
Now recognised as Africa’s largest maritime museum, the Namibia Maritime Museum is housed in the historic old Lüderitz Power Station, originally built in 1911.
The talk will also highlight the impressive redevelopment of the site into a vibrant cultural, educational, and tourism hub along the area’s waterfront.
The evening promises to offer fascinating insights into both history and modern heritage development, making it a must-attend for anyone interested in the ocean, conservation, and Southern Africa’s shared past.
For further information, interested attendees can contact the East London Museum.
