Lake Volta (Akosombo Dam)
Eastern
Lake Volta is a vast reservoir created by the Akosombo Dam on the Volta River in southeastern Ghana. Covering 8,502 square kilometers, it is the largest man-made lake by surface area globally and the third largest by volume. The dam was primarily built to provide electricity for Ghana's aluminum industry and now supplies power to Ghana and neighboring countries Togo and Benin. The dam itself is an impressive rock-fill embankment structure, 660 meters long and 114 meters high, housing six powerful Francis turbines. The creation of Lake Volta led to significant environmental and social changes, including displacement of local populations, altered microclimates, and challenges such as invasive aquatic weeds and waterborne diseases. Despite these impacts, the dam remains a critical infrastructure for Ghana's economy and regional power supply. The surrounding landscape offers unique views of the lake and dam, reflecting a blend of engineering achievement and natural beauty.
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Tip: The best time to visit Lake Volta and the Akosombo Dam is during the dry season when water levels and visibility are optimal. Visitors should arrange guided tours in advance to access the dam facilities and learn about its history and operations. Purchasing tickets or tour packages ahead of time is recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons. Be aware of local health advisories related to waterborne diseases when exploring lake areas. Discounts may be available for groups, students, or seniors at official visitor centers.
Interesting facts
- •Lake Volta covers about 3.6% of Ghana's land area, making it the largest man-made lake by surface area worldwide.
- •The Akosombo Dam's power plant contains six 170-megawatt Francis turbines, upgraded in 2006 to produce 1,020 megawatts.
- •The flooding to create Lake Volta caused seismic activity that contributed to coastal erosion along the Gulf of Guinea.
- •Lake Volta's invasive aquatic weeds complicate water navigation and provide breeding grounds for disease vectors like those causing bilharzia and river blindness.
- •The dam was a major economic investment, costing an estimated $258 million, financed partly by American companies and banks.
History
The concept of harnessing the Volta River for hydroelectric power dates back to 1915, conceived by geologist Albert Kitson.
However, actual planning and construction only began in the mid-20th century due to funding constraints.
The American company Volta Aluminum Company (Valco) financed the project, which was championed by Ghana's first president, Kwame Nkrumah.
The dam was completed to support an aluminum smelter at Tema, integrating Ghana's industrial ambitions with regional electrification.
Since its completion, the dam has undergone upgrades, including a retrofit in 2006 that increased its power output.
Over time, the reservoir flooded large areas, displacing communities and reshaping local ecosystems.
Place Guide
Akosombo Dam Structure1965
An impressive rock-fill embankment dam 660 meters long and 114 meters high, featuring two spillways with steel floodgates that control the massive water flow from Lake Volta.
Lake Volta Reservoir1965
The reservoir stretches 400 kilometers in length, holding 148 cubic kilometers of water, making it the third largest man-made lake by volume globally.
