Mali - Niger
9 images Created 18 Jun 2012
The Niger River is the principal river of western Africa, extending about 4,180 km (2,600 mi). Its drainage basin is 2,117,700 km2 (817,600 sq mi) in area. Its source is in the Guinea Conackry Highlands in southeastern Guinea. It runs in a crescent through Mali, Niger, on the border with Benin and then through Nigeria, discharging through a massive delta, known as the Niger Delta or the Oil Rivers, into the Gulf of Guinea in the Atlantic Ocean. The Niger is the third-longest river in Africa, exceeded only by the Nile and the Congo River (also known as the Zaïre River). Its main tributary is the Benue River.
Irrigation canals spread out from the river, bringing precious water to a sometimes starving delta. Millet and sorghum are grown. Fish in the river also form sources of food for people who live nearby. Dams are also present on the Niger. One of the largest is the Kainji Dam, at New Bussa. This dam was built both to protect against flooding and for hydroelectric power.
The unusual geography of the river has made for some exciting times for the middle of the flow. Called the Niger Bend, the middle of the river was a focal point for trade across the western Sahara and a major center of the ancient African kingdom of Mali.
Since the early days of civilization in the region, the river has been a source of power also in the constant wars that have battered the region. Struggles continue today over where to build dams and tame rapids. Here if you are lookin for river Niger Mali
Irrigation canals spread out from the river, bringing precious water to a sometimes starving delta. Millet and sorghum are grown. Fish in the river also form sources of food for people who live nearby. Dams are also present on the Niger. One of the largest is the Kainji Dam, at New Bussa. This dam was built both to protect against flooding and for hydroelectric power.
The unusual geography of the river has made for some exciting times for the middle of the flow. Called the Niger Bend, the middle of the river was a focal point for trade across the western Sahara and a major center of the ancient African kingdom of Mali.
Since the early days of civilization in the region, the river has been a source of power also in the constant wars that have battered the region. Struggles continue today over where to build dams and tame rapids. Here if you are lookin for river Niger Mali