1. Economic & Political Characteristics of Sub-Saharan Africa Francisci WG.4

2. Political Map of Africa The political map of Africa has changed throughout history. Map of Africa in 1914 shows Africa as the continent controlled by European nations during imperialism. Map of Africa from the 1990s shows the independent countries of Africa.

3. Political Organizations African Union (AU): is political organization created in 2002 to promote human rights, democracy and economic development in Africa. – 54 member nations – Morocco is the only African country not apart of this union.

4. Raw Materials Africa is a huge exporter of raw resources. – Many African countries export raw materials (diamonds, salt, gold, iron, copper, silver, petroleum, cocoa beans, woods and tropical fruits) in exchange for manufactured goods (automobiles, jewelry, tractors, gasoline, etc.) from developed nations. – Example: Cote d’Ivoire exchanges cash crops for manufactured goods.

5. Developing Nation Africa is considered to be a developing region. – Wide range in per capita (per person) income. – Majority of people are very poor while a small percentage is moderately wealthy. – A large percentage of the population engages in subsistence agriculture which is a primary economic activity.

6. Traits of a Developing Africa: Nomadic herding (especially in the Sahel) Slash and burn agriculture (especially in rain forest areas) Existence of huge plantations raising cash crops and owned by a wealthy few

7. Traits of a Developing Africa: Poorly developed infrastructure (transportation, communication, sewage, water and electric systems) Low productivity (GDP): region does not produce many goods

8. Traits of a Developing Africa: Low life expectancy High population growth rate Large percentage of the population under age 15

9. Traits of a Developing Africa: Population pyramid is a triangle or pyramid shape with wide base High infant mortality rate Low literacy rate

10. Example of a Site Site: Actual location of a city – Example: Khartoum, Sudan; Confluence site where the Blue and White Niles Meet (Remember a confluence site is a place where two or more rivers meet and join together)

11. Examples of a Situation Situation: relative location of a city. – Timbuktu, Mali: City that grew up along the Trans- Saharan trade route – Cape Town, South Africa: Supply station for ships prior to the construction of the Suez Canal.