Stories and facts
Geography and Boundaries
Savelugu Municipality is bounded by the West Mamprusi District to the North, Karaga and Nanton Districts to the East, Kumbungu District to the West, and Sagnerigu District Assembly to the South. It encompasses around 81 communities, with the majority concentrated in the southern part of the municipality. The landscape's altitude ranges between 400 to 800 ft. above sea level, with the southern section being slightly hilly and sloping gently towards the North. Geologically, the area is characterized by the Middle and Upper Voltaian sedimentary formations. The northern part comprises sandstone, shale, and siltstone, while the southern part consists of shale and mudstone. The differences in underlying rock formations influence the potential for underground water, with borehole drilling expected to have a higher success rate in the northern region.
Climate and Rainfall Pattern
Savelugu Municipality experiences a tropical savanna climate with distinct wet and dry seasons. The region receives an average annual rainfall of about 600mm, which is generally sufficient for a single farming season. The rainfall pattern is erratic at the onset of the rainy season, starting in April, but intensifies as the season progresses, raising the average precipitation from 600mm to 1000mm. Average temperatures are relatively high, hovering around 34°C, with maximum temperatures reaching as high as 42°C and minimum temperatures dropping to about 16°C. The cooler temperatures are experienced from December to late February, coinciding with the influence of the North-East Trade winds (harmattan). These dry winds result in low humidity levels, favoring high rates of evaporation and transpiration, which can lead to water deficiencies in the area.
Savelugu Municipality is an important region in the Northern Region of Ghana, with a history dating back to its establishment as the Savelugu-Nanton Municipal Assembly. Its geography is characterized by a generally flat terrain with gentle undulations, and its climate features distinct wet and dry seasons. Understanding the geological formations and rainfall patterns is crucial for managing water resources effectively in the municipality, especially in addressing potential water deficiencies.
