The largest lake in Africa by volume is Lake Tanganyika. Stretching across four countries—Burundi, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Tanzania, and Zambia—Lake Tanganyika is also one of the world's deepest and oldest lakes. It plays a crucial role in the region's ecology and economy, supporting numerous species of fish and providing water resources for local communities. The lake is integral to the cultural identity of the surrounding peoples and is a vital freshwater source.