Stories and facts
The Akosombo Dam, also referred to as the Volta Dam, stands proudly on the Volta River in southeastern Ghana. Stretching 124 meters tall and 660 meters long, this colossal structure serves as a barrier, harnessing the waters of Lake Volta, recognized as the largest man-made lake globally based on surface area. Covering a staggering third of Ghana's land area, the Lake Volta reservoir spans an impressive 8,502 square kilometers.
The genesis of the idea to construct a dam in Ghana dates back to 1915, when Albert Ernest Kitson, a pioneering geologist, proposed the concept. However, it wasn't until 1961, under the leadership of Ghana's first president, Dr. Kwame Nkrumah, that the actual construction commenced. Four years later, in 1965, the project reached completion. The Akosombo Dam not only adds to Ghana's scenic beauty but also holds immense economic significance for the nation.
As the largest lake in Ghana, Lake Volta boasts an estimated surface area of 3,283 square miles and an average depth of 62 feet. The construction of this reservoir, initiated in 1961, necessitated the displacement of over 78,000 people and their livestock. Upon its completion in 1965, Lake Volta emerged as the largest artificial waterbody in the region. Spanning approximately 250 miles in length, Lake Volta has a capacity exceeding 124,000,000 acres of water. Beyond its sheer size, Lake Volta serves multifaceted purposes, including fishing, irrigation, and the generation of hydroelectric power, catering to local needs and facilitating exports to neighboring countries.
Below is the beautiful site of Lake Volta.
In stark contrast to Lake Volta's man-made grandeur, Lake Bosumtwi stands as Ghana's second-largest lake and the only natural one. Covering an estimated surface area of 19 square miles, Lake Bosumtwi boasts a maximum length of 5.3 miles and a width of 5.0 miles, with an average depth of 148 feet. Situated southeast of Kumasi within an ancient crater, believed to have formed from a meteorite impact, Lake Bosumtwi holds both geographical and cultural significance. The crater, spanning 6.5 miles in diameter, hosts the lake, which extends over 5 miles. With a depth reaching 1,250 feet, excluding sediment deposits, Lake Bosumtwi is not only a recreational hotspot but also a sacred site for the Ashanti people. Fishing in Lake Bosumtwi is conducted using traditional wooden vessels, as per Ashanti customs, which honor the spiritual significance of the lake. Home to a diverse array of rare fish species, Lake Bosumtwi sustains approximately 70,000 individuals from 30 villages, whose livelihoods are intertwined with its waters.
Lake Volta symbolizes Ghana's prowess in engineering and resource management, Lake Bosumtwi serves as a natural wonder, embodying the cultural heritage and ecological richness of the region. Together, these lakes stand asa testament to Ghana's diverse landscape and the symbiotic relationship between nature and human endeavors.
Below is the beautiful site of Lake Bosumtwi.
