Explain the coastal Savannah of Ghana and its characteristics.
The Correct Answer and Explanation is:
Coastal Savannah of Ghana – Explanation and Characteristics
The Coastal Savannah is a unique ecological zone in southern Ghana, stretching along the coastline from the Volta Region in the east to the Central and parts of the Greater Accra and Western Regions in the west. It lies between the Atlantic Ocean and the forest and inland savannah zones, forming a narrow strip of flat land. This zone is an integral part of Ghana’s diverse ecological regions.
Characteristics of the Coastal Savannah:
- Climate:
The Coastal Savannah experiences a tropical savannah climate, with two rainy seasons (May–June and September–October) and a long dry season (November–March). Annual rainfall ranges between 800mm and 1,100mm, making it drier than the forest zones. - Vegetation:
The vegetation is predominantly grassland with scattered shrubs and short trees, adapted to withstand dry spells and occasional bushfires. Mangroves are also found in estuarine areas and lagoons. - Soil:
The soils are generally sandy, saline, and low in fertility, particularly near the coast. This limits intensive agriculture but supports the cultivation of drought-resistant crops like cassava and millet. - Economic Activities:
Key activities include fishing, salt mining, small-scale farming, and livestock rearing. The proximity to the sea also supports trade and tourism, especially around Accra and Cape Coast. - Human Settlement:
This zone is densely populated, hosting major urban centers like Accra (the capital city) and Tema. Urbanization and industrialization are more pronounced here than in other ecological zones. - Environmental Challenges:
The area faces coastal erosion, flooding, and saltwater intrusion due to rising sea levels. Overgrazing and deforestation also threaten the ecological balance.
In summary, the Coastal Savannah of Ghana is a transitional zone with a hot, dry climate, grassland vegetation, and economic reliance on fishing, farming, and urban activities. Its strategic location makes it crucial to Ghana’s economy, but it also faces significant environmental pressures.
