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Volta

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description Volta Overview

The Volta is a river system in West Africa centered on Ghana's White Volta, Black Volta, and Red Volta. The combined river flows south through Ghana and enters the Gulf of Guinea, while the Akosombo Dam on the lower Volta created Lake Volta. The reservoir is used for hydroelectric generation, transport, and fishing. The river basin also extends into Burkina Faso, Côte d'Ivoire, Benin, and Togo through its tributaries.

help Volta FAQ

What rivers make up the Volta river system?

The Volta system is centered on the White Volta, Black Volta, and Red Volta. Their combined flow runs south through Ghana before reaching the Gulf of Guinea in West Africa.

How was Lake Volta created?

The Akosombo Dam on the lower Volta created Lake Volta as a large hydroelectric reservoir. The lake is therefore a managed reservoir within the Volta system rather than a naturally formed inland sea.

Why is the Volta important to Ghana?

The river system supports hydroelectric power through the Akosombo Dam and supplies a major inland reservoir in Ghana. It also connects northern tributaries with the country’s southern coast.

Does the Volta River reach the ocean?

Yes, the combined Volta flows south and enters the Gulf of Guinea. The river’s route from the White, Black, and Red Volta branches to the coast makes it a major West African drainage system.

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