Geology Graduate Unearths New Insights on Namibia’s Ancient Coastline

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A childhood fascination with rocks led Ms Marinja Bester to undertake cutting-edge research on one of the world’s most unique coastlines and earn herself a Master of Science in Geology from UKZN.

Bester’s academic journey is rooted in early inspiration and driven by a deep love for the natural world. Her interest in geology was sparked in high school when her mother introduced her to the Discipline, taking her to the UKZN Science Centre. It was there that she first met Science Centre Co-ordinator Dr Tanja Reinhardt, who ignited her growing passion.

As an undergraduate, her exposure to sedimentology and marine geology under the guidance of Professor Andrew Green solidified her direction. After a compelling honours project focused on gas pockmarks off the coast of Mozambique, continuing with an MSc under Green’s supervision was a natural next step.

Bester’s MSc research delved into the sedimentary architecture and coastal evolution of the southern Namibian coastline - a region renowned for housing the world’s largest accumulation of diamonds. Titled: “Submerged Barrier Evolution Along the Mittag Inner Continental Shelf, Southern Namibia”, her study focused on the preserved barrier and spit formations that lie submerged 55m to 100m below sea level, which have been shaped over millions of years by fluctuating sea levels, sediment supply and geological processes.

‘These preserved barrier spit formations act as a natural record book,’ Bester explained, ‘offering insight into past coastal behaviour and sea-level changes.’

Her research employed seismic stratigraphy and remote sensing technologies, complemented by core sampling, to reconstruct a comprehensive geological model of the region. Her findings not only contribute to our understanding of long-term coastal dynamics and climate patterns but also carry important implications for natural resource management - particularly in identifying diamond trap sites along the Namibian coast.

Bester’s fascination with marine geology can be traced back to childhood hikes, when she proudly filled a tiny backpack with “cool rocks” she found along the trail. Though some of these treasures were discreetly removed by her mother when the load became too heavy, the young geologist’s passion never waned. For Bester, the field of marine geology successfully combines her early love of geology with a deep appreciation for the ocean.

Since 2022, Bester has been employed by offshore diamond mining company Trans Hex in Cape Town, where she continued her studies while gaining industry experience. Next up is a move to The Netherlands, where she will work as a geologist and geotechnical engineer, contributing to the development of offshore wind energy infrastructure by assisting with the drilling and installation of pipelines connecting wind turbines to onshore substations.

Bester thanked Green for his mentorship and academic guidance. ‘He has the utmost patience for his students and will go above and beyond to assist,’ she said. Her family, too, provided a strong foundation, as did fellow MSc graduate and close friend Ms Tamera Heeralal who was a trusted source of invaluable support - and hot chocolate - during the toughest times.

Away from her studies, Bester enjoys hiking, beach outings and spontaneous adventures with friends. A firm believer in balance, she also appreciates quiet evenings at home, knitting while watching series shows on TV. She’s currently learning French and Dutch - skills that will no doubt serve her well as she embarks on her new European chapter.

‘Thank you for the opportunity to gain a master’s degree of such high quality through UKZN and for allowing me to gain valuable life and work experience,’ added Bester.

Words: Sally Frost

Photograph: Sethu Dlamini