Volta Corner Series – Conversations on Development and Leadership in the Volta Region Lake Volta – Ghana’s Great Water Treasure and Engine of Growth

Lake Volta – A Lifeline Across GhanaStretching across a vast expanse of eastern Ghana, Lake Volta is more than a body of water; it is the heartbeat of the nation’s economic, environmental, and social life. Created in 1965 following the construction of the Akosombo Dam, Lake Volta stands as one of the largest man-made lakes in the world, covering an estimated 8,500 square kilometers. Its shimmering waters connect multiple regions, sustain thousands of livelihoods, and power much of Ghana’s development. Sustaining Communities and LivelihoodsFrom fishing to transportation, energy generation to tourism, Lake Volta plays a multi-dimensional role in Ghana’s growth. The lake supports thousands of fishermen and their families, providing a major source of protein for both local and national consumption. Communities along its shores, including Kpando, Dzemeni and Akosombo, rely heavily on fishing-related activities such as fish smoking, trading, boat building and transport services. Each ...