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Africa - base knowledge



Africa - base knowledge

 Africa is located in Southern Europe; it is the second largest continent, in the world, covering approximately one fifth of the world's land mass. Africa is surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean, to its west, and the Indian Ocean, to its east. It's unique location, with the equator and tropics of Capricorn and cancer running through it, give Africa an equatorial climate. Deserts and dry land prevail across Africa, however, some of its countries receive regular snow.

One of the most brutal stereotypes regarding Africa is that it is a poor place full of famine, drought and unsanitary living conditions. Thoughts that come to mind regarding Africa are desiccated, poor, tropical and unhygienic. While Africa may have a low GDP rate, it is also home to many wealthy cities and it is advancing rapidly. Africa's poverty rate is falling and the number of people regarded as middle class is rising. Another common misconception is that all of Africa is hot, dry and sunny, however, this is not true, it is a diverse continent and even has some mountainous regions. These stereotypes can be dangerous, as Africa is developing in its own way, and should not be criticized or compared to western standards of living. In fact, Africa is an extremely technologically advanced country and is generating much of its energy sustainably.

Despite many countries in Africa being developed, the vast majority are poor and do not meet adequate living standards and levels of health care. For example, Nigeria, being a major exporter of oil and gas has a large economy, but has political instability and it's workers incomes are unfair and unequal. Other contributors to its low level of development include a dense population and low literacy rate. Not all African countries are underdeveloped, with many of them gaining a wealthy economy from tourism, and making use of the natural resources that they can sell.

Much of sub Saharan Africa suffers from water scarcity, this can be due to the lack of infrastructure, weak governments and corruption. This is a pressing issue and has negative and shocking impacts on the lives of millions of citizens, living on dirty water and with remote access to it. This issue has been recognized by the majority of the world and many charities and organizations are collaborating to try and assist with the issue. However, we must all act to put a stop to it.

Currently, Africa is the least urbanized continent but this is changing as numbers of urban residents increase. Africa's population shares its rich culture and heritage.






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