Theory question 113
Geography of Africa(a) Draw a sketch map of Africa and on it mark and name the following dams: (i) Kariba (ii) Aswan (iii) Cabora Bassa (iv) Akosombo (v) Owen
(b) With reference to specific examples in Africa, discuss the importance of hydro-electric power projects to the economy
(c) Explain the problems facing the development of hydro-electric power projects in Tropical Africa.
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(a) Map: Kariba on the Zambezi (Zambia/Zimbabwe); Aswan on the Nile (Egypt); Cabora Bassa on the Zambezi (Mozambique); Akosombo on the Volta (Ghana); Owen Falls on the Nile at Jinja (Uganda)
(b) Power for industries (e.g. Valco aluminium smelter from Akosombo, Zambian copper mines from Kariba); electricity for homes and towns; irrigation (Aswan); fishing in lakes; water transport on lakes; flood control; export of power; tourism; employment
(c) Very high capital cost; seasonal river flow and low water in dry years; silting of reservoirs; displacement of people and flooding of farmland; water-borne diseases; lack of skilled personnel; small industrial market; political instability
Name the dam and the country it serves in (b).