What is subsistence agriculture, and why does it often result in poverty?
Responses may vary but should include some or all of the following information: Most people who live in Africa work in agriculture, mostly at the subsistence level. This means that many people are engaged in farming and herding, but they only produce enough to feed themselves and their families. For these farmers, there is not a lot left over to sell at a market, so they do not have cash to buy other things that are needed to improve their standard of living, such as clothing or electricity. As a result, most people live in poverty, often on one-to-two dollars a day. There are no social protections like welfare or food stamps. People do not live as long because they are more likely to die of disease or malnutrition.
What agricultural challenges do Africans face, and how do these affect food production in the continent?
Responses may vary but should include some or all of the following information: Africa faces many challenges with regard to agriculture. First, in many parts of Africa, there are often droughts, which kill many crops. Economically, many African nations lack the funds to buy irrigation systems to make up for a lack of rain, as well as expensive equipment and fertilizers. Many people farm at the subsistence level, with just enough produce to feed themselves and their families. There is little surplus to store for years with lower yields. In addition, single-crop farming means that much of the best land is used to grow crops for export. If that crop fails, the entire economy can collapse. As a result, the continent is at a high risk for famine.
How are the economies of South Africa and Nigeria different from each other?
Responses may vary but should include some or all of the following information: Nigeria has a developing economy. This means that the country is in the process of shifting from an agriculture-based economy to an industrialized one. Most people farm for a living: about 79% of the economy is based on agriculture. As a result, per capita GDP is low, about $2,400. South Africa has an emerging market economy. This means that its economy is becoming more advanced. The country has already become industrialized; its economy is based on service industries and on industries like manufacturing and mining. Just 9% is based on agriculture. The GDP is much higher, at about $10,700 per person.
What similar challenges do both South Africa and Nigeria face in the future?
Responses may vary but should include some or all of the following information: Both countries have high poverty rates. In Nigeria, 57% live in poverty. Poverty rates in South Africa are also high, especially among non-whites. Both countries also face challenges providing enough schools and teachers for their children. In Nigeria, oil income has not benefited the general population, and the history of apartheid in South Africa restricted access to secondary education, especially among non-whites.
What resources are important to the economies of Africa, and in what areas are they commonly found?
Responses may vary but should include some or all of the following information: Africa is extremely rich in minerals. The region is an important producer of gold, diamonds, and other gemstones, as well as uranium and minerals like bauxite. Southern Africa has some of Africa’s largest mineral deposits. This area includes countries such as South Africa, Botswana, Tanzania, and Namibia. South Africa is the world’s largest gold and platinum producer. Botswana is the world’s largest producer of diamonds. Many countries in Africa are also important oil exporters. Today, about 11% of US oil comes from Nigeria, and North Africa (which includes countries like Libya, Algeria, and Egypt) is an important oil producer.
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