List of rivers of Burkina Faso facts for kids

Burkina Faso is a country in West Africa. Even though it doesn't have a coastline, it has many important rivers. These rivers are like lifelines for the people, animals, and plants living there. They provide water for drinking, farming, and even transportation. Burkina Faso is known for three main rivers: the Black Volta, the Red Volta, and the White Volta.

Map of Burkina Faso with main rivers

Rivers of Burkina Faso

What is a River Basin?

Imagine a giant funnel where all the rain and smaller streams flow into one main river. This whole area is called a river basin or drainage basin. All the water in a basin eventually flows to the same place, like an ocean or a large lake.

In Burkina Faso, some areas near rivers have small insects called tsetse flies and simulium flies. These flies can be annoying, but they are a natural part of the river environment.

Rivers Flowing to the Gulf of Guinea

Many rivers in Burkina Faso flow south towards the Gulf of Guinea, which is part of the Atlantic Ocean. These rivers are very important for the countries they pass through.

The Volta river system

• Komoé River
  • Iringou River
  • Léraba River
• Volta River (Ghana)
  • Oti River (also known as the Pendjari River)
    • Koulpéolgo River
  • Black Volta (also called the Mouhoun River)
    • Bougouriba River
    • Sourou River
  • White Volta (also called the Nakambé River)
    • Kulpawn River
      • Sisili River
    • Red Volta (also called the Nazinon River)

Rivers Flowing to the Niger River

Other rivers in Burkina Faso flow north or east, eventually joining the mighty Niger River. The Niger River is one of the longest rivers in Africa and flows through many countries.

Béli River in the rainy season

• Niger River (Niger)
  • Mékrou River
  • Tapoa River
  • Goroubi River
  • Sirba River
  • Béli River
  • Bani River (Mali)
    • Banifing River