Portal:Africa

Portal:Africa

The Portal:Africa serves as a comprehensive gateway to the vast and diverse continent of Africa, providing a centralized access point for information related to its geography, history, culture, politics, and more. This portal is designed to facilitate easy navigation and exploration of the myriad topics associated with Africa, offering a curated selection of articles, images, and resources.

Overview

Africa is the world's second-largest and second-most-populous continent, covering over 30 million square kilometers and home to more than 1.3 billion people. It is a continent of immense diversity, with 54 recognized sovereign states, each with its own unique cultural and historical heritage. The continent is bounded by the Mediterranean Sea to the north, the Suez Canal and the Red Sea to the northeast, the Indian Ocean to the southeast, and the Atlantic Ocean to the west.

Geography

Africa's geography is incredibly varied, ranging from the vast Sahara Desert in the north to the dense rainforests of Central Africa, and the savannas of the Serengeti. The continent is home to some of the world's most famous geographical features, including the Nile River, the longest river in the world, and Mount Kilimanjaro, the highest peak in Africa.

History

Africa is often referred to as the "Cradle of Humankind" due to the discovery of some of the earliest hominid fossils in the Great Rift Valley. The continent has a rich history that includes ancient civilizations such as Egypt, Carthage, and Nubia, as well as the powerful medieval empires of Mali, Ghana, and Songhai. The colonial period saw the partitioning of Africa by European powers, leading to significant political and social changes.

Culture

Africa's cultural landscape is as diverse as its geography, with thousands of ethnic groups and languages. The continent is known for its rich traditions in music, art, and dance, which vary widely from region to region. African cuisine, fashion, and literature have also gained international recognition, contributing to the global cultural tapestry.

Economy

Africa's economy is diverse, with agriculture, mining, and tourism being significant sectors. The continent is rich in natural resources, including minerals, oil, and gas. However, economic development varies widely across the continent, with some countries experiencing rapid growth while others face challenges such as poverty and political instability.

Politics

The political landscape of Africa is complex, with a mix of democracies, monarchies, and authoritarian regimes. The African Union (AU) is a continental union consisting of 55 member states, established to promote unity and cooperation among African countries.

Also see

• Geography of Africa
• History of Africa
• Culture of Africa
• Economy of Africa
• Politics of Africa
• African Union
• List of African countries