Kossou Dam | Yamoussoukro

Information

Landmark: Kossou Dam
City: Yamoussoukro
Country: Cote d-Ivoire
Continent: Africa

Kossou Dam, Yamoussoukro, Cote d-Ivoire, Africa

The Kossou Dam is a hydroelectric dam located on the Bandama River, approximately 35 kilometers northwest of Yamoussoukro, Côte d'Ivoire.

Visual Characteristics

The dam structure is composed of compacted earth and rockfill, with a crest length of 1,500 meters and a maximum height of 55 meters. The reservoir it creates, Lake Kossou, is a large body of water with an average depth of 15 meters and a surface area of approximately 1,700 square kilometers when at full capacity. The surrounding landscape consists of savanna vegetation.

Location & Access Logistics

Access to the dam is via Route Nationale 1 (RN1) from Yamoussoukro, turning onto a secondary paved road leading directly to the dam site. The distance from Yamoussoukro city center is approximately 35 kilometers. Parking is available at designated areas near the dam's control structures. Public transport options are limited; shared taxis (gbaka) operate between Yamoussoukro and nearby villages, requiring onward travel by motorcycle taxi or private arrangement to reach the dam itself.

Historical & Ecological Origin

Construction of the Kossou Dam began in 1968 and was completed in 1972. It was designed and built by the Italian company Impresit. The primary purpose was to generate hydroelectric power and to control flooding on the Bandama River. The dam's creation resulted in the formation of Lake Kossou, a significant artificial lake that displaced approximately 100,000 people and altered the local ecosystem.

Key Highlights & Activities

Observation of the dam's engineering structure is the primary activity. Boat tours on Lake Kossou can be arranged from nearby villages, offering views of the reservoir and surrounding shoreline. Fishing is a common activity for local residents. Birdwatching is possible due to the presence of various waterfowl and savanna species.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Basic facilities are present at the dam site, including rudimentary restrooms. Shade is limited to the immediate vicinity of the control buildings. Cell phone signal (primarily 2G/3G) is intermittent. Food vendors are not consistently present at the dam itself, but can be found in nearby villages.

Best Time to Visit

The dry season, from November to March, offers the most favorable weather conditions with less rainfall. Mid-morning to late afternoon provides adequate natural light for viewing the dam structure and the lake. There are no tide-dependent activities.

Facts & Legends

The construction of the Kossou Dam led to the relocation of the Baoulé people, a significant cultural event in the region's history. A specific local legend speaks of spirits inhabiting the depths of Lake Kossou, influencing the fishing fortunes of those who venture onto its waters.