Human Geography of West Africa History and Government

Human Geography of West Africa History and Government • Many empires, such as the Ghana, Mali, Songhai, and Benin, flourished in West Africa. • As more Europeans arrived, they began to exploit West Africa’s resources and colonize the continent. • Europeans set African peoples against one another, adding to internal tensions and strengthening European rule. • Even after achieving independence, these emerging countries faced daunting challenges, as many of them still do today.

Human Geography of West Africa Population Patterns • West Africa is a very populous subregion, with Nigeria having the continent’s largest population. • Many are moving to urban areas to find better opportunities, healthcare, and education. • With the world’s fastest rate of urbanization, the subregion’s rapid growth has placed tremendous strain on existing infrastructure, or the set of systems that affect how well a place operates. • Governments are attempting to improve living conditions.

Human Geography of West Africa Society and Culture Today • The subregion is home to numerous ethnic groups which speak many different languages. • Poverty limits access to healthcare, leading to high death rates from poor sanitation and nutrition. • The role of women is changing, with some beginning to open their own businesses and enter professions. • The arts reinforce cultural heritage, such as performances by griots, oral historians and storytellers.

Human Geography of West Africa Economic Activities • The major focus is agriculture, but some small businesses sell locally made products via ecommerce, or buying and selling via the Internet. • A small percentage practices commercial farming, with cacao being the most important cash crop. • Mining of natural resources plays an important economic role, as do Nigeria’s oil reserves. • Trade within the region is expanding.