Gulf of Guinea

Gulf of Guinea

News: Recently, India and the European Union (EU) have conducted their maiden joint naval exercise in the Gulf of Guinea.

About:
• The Gulf of Guinea is the northeasternmost part of the tropical Atlantic Ocean. It extends from Cape Lopez in Gabon, north and west to Cape Palmas in Liberia.
• The Gulf of Guinea is a significant location due to its strategic importance.

Why is the Gulf important?
• It is estimated that the Gulf of Guinea is now the source of 2.7% and 4.5% of the world’s reserves in gas and oil respectively.
• It has become a focal point of piracy and acts of armed robbery at sea.
• It is critical to major imports and exports of landlocked countries like Burkina Faso, Central Africa Republic, Chad, and Mali.

Which important rivers drain into the Gulf?
• Among the many rivers that drain into the Gulf of Guinea are the Niger and the Volta. These rivers play a crucial role in the ecosystem of the region and contribute to its economic significance.