Mouhoun

The Mouhoun, known in English as the Black Volta, is a major river in West Africa that flows primarily through Burkina Faso and extends into Ghana. It is one of the principal rivers of the Volta River basin and plays a key role in the hydrology and livelihoods of the region.

Origin and course: The Mouhoun rises in the southern highlands of Burkina Faso and generally travels westward across the country. It passes through several towns, including Dédougou and Nouna, and in its western reaches forms part of the boundary with Ghana before continuing into Ghana, where the river is also known as the Black Volta.

Hydrology and ecology: The river exhibits a pronounced seasonal cycle, with higher flow during the rainy season and lower flow in the dry season. Its corridors support wetlands, riparian habitats, and a range of aquatic and bird species. The basin sustains fishing communities and provides water for irrigation and some local agriculture.

Economy and human use: The Mouhoun is a vital water resource for communities along its banks, supporting irrigation for crops such as cotton, millet, and sorghum, as well as fishing and small-scale transportation in certain sections. The region around the river, including the Boucle du Mouhoun area, is a center of agricultural activity and rural livelihoods.

Etymology and cultural significance: The name Mouhoun derives from the Mooré language, commonly interpreted as meaning “the dark” or “the black river,” reflecting the river’s appearance at times of the year. The river holds historical and cultural importance for local communities in Burkina Faso and, downstream, in Ghana.