Middle East and North Africa

The area of the Middle East and North Africa represent about twenty different countries. These countries have similar climate, similar religions, and similar economies. Even though the two are on separate continents, they share many different similarities

Climate The climate of the Middle East and North Africa is very arid (arid usually refers to a desert. North Africa sits above the largest desert in the world: the Sahara. One of the most precious commodities in this part of the world is water. Most of the area receives less than 10 inches of rain per year.

The Economy Like water, natural resources are distributed unevenly across the Middle East and North Africa. In some parts, huge masses of underground oil and natural gas can be tapped for profit. This provide a solid financial backing for many of the countries. Other countries rely on agriculture, mostly farming and herding.

People of the Middle East and North Africa Many people believe that civilization began in the Middle East and North Africa. The area where most people believe life started is called Mesopotamia, or the fertile crescent. This area is mentioned in the Bible as being where life began. It is also an area where archeologist find many artifacts that support this theory.

The Nile River The Nile river is also known as a area of civilization development. The Nile River feeds the majority of the country of Egypt as it has for thousands of years. The Nile River is a major source of water, both for drinking and for irrigation. The Nile River Delta is one of the most fertile areas of Egypt and North Africa

A Water Crisis The water supply in North Africa and the Middle East is very fragile. By the year 2025, the population will have grown to 570 million people. Pollution will make existing water supplies more venerable Most of water supply will go to water crops.