Lake Victoria is among the largest water bodies not only in Kenya but also the entire world. The lake stretches into three countries of Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania. Thousands of people reside along the shores of the lake. The water body also has endless tourist attractions that will make you keep going back whenever you have a holiday. Here are 5 less known facts about Lake Victoria.
1. The source of Lake Victoria is River Nile
The waters of Lake Victoria originate from the famous River Nile, which is located in East Africa. The River flows into the Saharan Desert and empties its water into the Mediterranean sea in the northern part of Africa.
2. The lake was first discovered by John Speke
According to historical records, John Speke was the first white man to see this lake in 1858. He decided to name the lake after Queen Victoria and since then the name has been retained. However, there were many communities living around the lake during that time.
3. It has a single outlet
There are many streams that feed the river with water but the only outlet is in Jinja. This makes the lake to be highly sensitive the changes in temperature as well as variations in the climate of the region over months of the year.
4. It is the largest African tropical lake
Lake Victoria has been listed as the largest tropical lake. It covers 2760 cubic Kilometers. The lake is shallow compared to most lakes in the region.