a river in West Africa, within the boundaries of Ghana (the greater part) Upper Volta, Dahomey, the Ivory Coast, and Togo. It is formed by the confluence of the White and the Black Voltas. Its length, according to different sources, is from 1,400 km to 1,600 km, and the area of its basin is 388,000 sq km. The most important tributaries are the Oti and Daka (left) and the Afram (right). Until its junction with the White Volta the river mostly flows through a broad valley. At its lower reaches the river forms a series of rapids as it cuts through the Akwapim Range. It flows into the Gulf of Guinea at Ada, forming a delta. There is high water during the rainy summer season, with the water reaching its highest level in September and October. At that time the waters overflow in many places, and the water level rises to 14 m. The lowest level occurs in February and March. The river is navigable for 400 km from its mouth; however, only the part near the estuary, up to Akuse, is accessible to steamers all year round. There are 11 ferries on the Volta. There is fishing on the river; about 400 types of fish may be found in the waters of the Volta basin. The main trading points are Kete-Krachi, Kpong, and Kpandu. Akosombo, a huge hydroelectric station (0.6 million kilowatts), was built on the Volta (in Ghana). Its energy has been designated primarily for the needs of the aluminum factory being built in Tema.
a light, silky cotton fabric with a linen weave; made from fine, combed yarn. It is close to cambric in texture but is slightly coarser. It is usually manufactured with various printed designs or dyed light and bright colors; less frequently it is manufactured bleached or partially colored. Volta is designed for making women’s summer dresses or underclothing.