Geography of Burundi

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Burundi_Topography

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== Geography of Burundi ==

Burundi is a landlocked country located in the Great Rift Valley where the African Great Lakes region and East Africa converge. It is bordered by Rwanda to the north, Tanzania to the east and southeast, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo to the west. The southwestern border is adjacent to Lake Tanganyika.

Topography

Burundi's topography is dominated by mountains and plateaus. The central plateau lies at an average altitude of 1,700 meters (5,577 feet), with the highest peak being Mount Heha at 2,685 meters (8,810 feet). The western part of the country is part of the Albertine Rift, a branch of the East African Rift system, which includes the Rusizi River valley and the shores of Lake Tanganyika.

Climate

Burundi has a tropical highland climate, with significant variations due to altitude. The central plateau enjoys a moderate climate, with average temperatures ranging from 20°C to 23°C (68°F to 73°F). The lower areas, such as the Rusizi River valley, are warmer, with average temperatures around 25°C (77°F). The country experiences two rainy seasons, from February to May and from September to November, and two dry seasons, from June to August and from December to January.

Hydrology

The country's major rivers include the Ruvubu River, which flows into the Kagera River, and the Malagarasi River, which flows into Lake Tanganyika. Lake Tanganyika is one of the world's deepest and oldest freshwater lakes, and it forms part of Burundi's southwestern border.

Natural Resources

Burundi is rich in natural resources, including nickel, uranium, rare earth elements, limestone, and platinum. However, the exploitation of these resources is limited due to the country's political instability and lack of infrastructure.

Environmental Issues

Burundi faces several environmental challenges, including deforestation, soil erosion, and habitat destruction. The high population density and reliance on subsistence agriculture have led to significant pressure on the land, resulting in the degradation of natural resources.

Related Pages

• Burundi
• Great Rift Valley
• Lake Tanganyika
• Mount Heha
• Rusizi River
• Ruvubu River
• Kagera River
• Malagarasi River