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Taabo Dam
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The Taabo Dam on the Bandama River is one of Ivory Coast's historically most important hydroelectric power plants. Commissioned in 1979, it was part of a large-scale initiative by the first president, Félix Houphouët-Boigny, to electrify Ivory Coast through hydropower. The facility has an installed capacity of 210 MW and plays a crucial role in regulating water flow in the Bandama Basin. Taabo forms a significant reservoir used not only for power generation but also providing livelihoods for many fishermen in the region. For decades, Taabo was one of the country's most reliable energy sources and recently underwent extensive rehabilitation measures to ensure its efficiency and operational safety for coming decades.
- Location: Côte d’Ivoire
- Top sights: Taabo · Taabo Department
- Nearby: Taabo (11 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Aug, Dec.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 27 | 28 | 27 | 27 | 26 | 25 | 25 | 25 | 25 | 26 | 26 | 27 |
| Rain mm | 20 | 64 | 118 | 138 | 164 | 214 | 99 | 67 | 119 | 164 | 97 | 40 |
📋 Practical info
What is this place?
Situated on the important Bandama River, this historically significant hydroelectric power plant ensures a constant and essential power supply for the nation's growing infrastructure.
Visiting
Unrestricted access to the inner technological workings of the dam is generally restricted to official personnel, meaning visitors should not expect guided technical tours.
Where to view it
The vast concrete barrier and the serene, wide waters of Lake Taabo provide impressive engineering and natural panoramas from accessible viewing points along the river valley.
Local products
The artificial lake has fostered a local fishing community, allowing visitors to encounter fresh daily catches and regionally smoked fish in the small surrounding settlements.
Active season
Generating electricity consistently throughout the year, the site presents its most powerful visual impact when excess seasonal rainfall forces the dramatic opening of the spillway gates.
Nearby
This industrial landmark serves as an interesting waypoint when traveling between the busy coastal metropolis of Abidjan and the administrative capital of Yamoussoukro.
Geography
Facts
- The dam is located about 160 kilometers northwest of Abidjan.
- It has three Francis turbines, each with 70 MW of power.
- Lake Taabo is an important center for inland fishing.
- The power plant was built with French technical support.
- Taabo serves as a balancing reservoir for the upstream Kossou Dam.
- The facility was modernized between 2018 and 2021.
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Notable places around
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Sights in the town Taabo Dam (2)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What is the function of the Taabo dam?
It serves for hydroelectric power generation and water regulation.
Can one visit the dam wall?
No, the area is closed as an industrial facility.
What does the Taabo region offer?
It is a rural region with agricultural significance.
When should one travel to the area?
In the drier phase between December and February.
Are there local specialties?
The regional cuisine has fresh produce and cassava-based dishes.
Taabo Dam: where is it located?
Taabo Dam is located in Côte d’Ivoire.
Taabo Dam: what is there to see?
Highlights include Taabo, Taabo Department.
Taabo Dam: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Aug, Dec.
Taabo Dam: why is it worth visiting?
The Taabo Dam on the Bandama River is one of Ivory Coast's historically most important hydroelectric power plants.
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