Geography of Ghana

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Ghana_Topography

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Overview of the geography of Ghana

The geography of Ghana is diverse and includes a variety of landscapes, from coastal plains to mountainous regions. Ghana is located in West Africa, bordered by Côte d'Ivoire to the west, Burkina Faso to the north, Togo to the east, and the Gulf of Guinea and Atlantic Ocean to the south.

Topography

Ghana's topography consists of low plains, dissected plateaus, and a few isolated hills and mountains. The highest point in Ghana is Mount Afadja, also known as Afadjato, which stands at 885 meters (2,904 feet) above sea level. The Akwapim-Togo Ranges run along the eastern border of the country, while the central and western parts are characterized by the Ashanti Uplands and the Kwahu Plateau.

Climate

Ghana has a tropical climate, with two main seasons: the wet season and the dry season. The wet season occurs from April to October, with the heaviest rainfall in June and September. The dry season, known as the Harmattan, is characterized by dry, dusty winds from the Sahara Desert and occurs from November to March. The coastal areas experience a more humid climate, while the northern regions are drier and hotter.

Rivers and Water Bodies

The major rivers in Ghana include the Volta River, which is the longest river in the country and flows into the Gulf of Guinea. The Black Volta and White Volta are tributaries of the Volta River. The Lake Volta, created by the Akosombo Dam, is one of the largest artificial lakes in the world. Other significant rivers include the Pra River, Ankobra River, and Tano River.

Natural Resources

Ghana is rich in natural resources, including gold, diamonds, bauxite, manganese, and oil. The country is one of the world's largest producers of gold and cocoa. The Western Region is particularly known for its mineral wealth.

Flora and Fauna

Ghana's diverse ecosystems support a wide range of flora and fauna. The country has several national parks and wildlife reserves, including Kakum National Park, Mole National Park, and Bia National Park. These protected areas are home to various species of mammals, birds, reptiles, and insects.

Environmental Issues

Ghana faces several environmental challenges, including deforestation, soil erosion, and pollution. Rapid urbanization and industrial activities have led to increased pressure on natural resources and the environment. Efforts are being made to address these issues through conservation programs and sustainable development initiatives.

Related Pages

• Accra
• Volta River
• Mount Afadja
• Lake Volta
• Kakum National Park
• Mole National Park
• Western Region (Ghana)

See Also

• Geography of Africa
• Climate of Ghana
• Natural resources of Ghana
• Wildlife of Ghana