The Niger River


The powerful niger river It is a source of food and water for five countries in West Africa. For the more than 20 African tribes that depend on it, Niger is a vital source of life. For hundreds of years tribes used the river at various points on its course. At the beginning of the 20th century, some explorers managed to follow the course of the river through the northeast through the lush tropical forests of Guinea to the land of Timbuktu.

From here they found that the river meandered around vast areas of savanna and arid dunes of southern Sahara formed. Geographers of the time speculated on whether it was a tributary of the Nile, or even if it was the Congo River. After several attempts, in 1834, they were able to follow the river until they reached the outlet to the sea.

It was now possible to map the route of the river correctly and later open it for use by merchants foreign. From that moment, Niger began to acquire great international importance. In 1878, four British companies operated on the river. River traffic has contributed to the development of a wood industryas well as palm oil and rubber plantations in Nigeria.

Easy and cheap outlet for other products was also allowed exportable, as well as the importation of various products. The way of life for the inhabitants of the country changed forever. During the rainy season, the highlands of Guinea feed it. Little by little the waters grow up to the plains of Mali.

A river and its people, the Niger river (Local boats) (Documentary, Discovery, History) (March 2024)


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