Africa is an incredibly vast and diverse continent, filled with unique cultures, landscapes, and people. It’s often portrayed as a single entity in the media, but the truth is that there are vast differences between the various regions that make up Africa. One such region is Sub-Saharan Africa, which encompasses the majority of the continent’s countries and is home to over a billion people. But what sets Sub-Saharan Africa apart from the rest of Africa?
For starters, the term “Sub-Saharan Africa” refers to the region that lies south of the Sahara desert. This area includes 48 countries and covers roughly 5 million square miles. While Africa as a whole is incredibly diverse, Sub-Saharan Africa is even more so, featuring a wide range of cultures, languages, and religions. There are numerous ethnic groups, each with their unique history and traditions, and many different languages spoken across the region.
Despite its diversity, Sub-Saharan Africa is united by its colonial past, with the majority of countries in the region having gained independence from European powers in the mid-20th century. This shared experience has resulted in a unique blend of cultures and traditions, as well as significant economic, political, and social challenges. Understanding the differences between Africa and Sub-Saharan Africa is crucial for anyone looking to engage with the region, and presents a fascinating opportunity for exploration and discovery.
Geographical characteristics of Africa
Africa, the second largest continent on earth, is located in the southern hemisphere and covers an area of approximately 30 million square kilometers. It is bordered by the Mediterranean Sea to the north, the Atlantic Ocean to the west, the Indian Ocean to the east and the Red Sea to the northeast. The continent is divided into five geographic regions that are characterized by distinct topographical features, climate zones, and wildlife reserves.
- Northern Africa: This region is composed of the Sahara Desert, the Atlas Mountains, and the Nile River system. The Sahara is the largest desert in the world, covering over 9 million square kilometers. The Atlas Mountains extend over 2,500-kilometer across Morocco, Algeria, and Tunisia. The Nile River, with its major tributaries, is the longest river in the world, flowing over 6,650 kilometers from Lake Victoria to the Mediterranean Sea.
- Western Africa: This region is mostly dominated by the Guinea and Sudan Savannas that cover a large part of West Africa. It also has several mountain ranges such as the Fouta Djallon and Mandara Mountains. The region is home to several major rivers such as the Niger, Senegal, and Congo rivers.
- Central Africa: This region is known for its rainforests and the Congo River Basin, which provides the second largest river system in the world. The region has a diverse ecosystem that is recognized as one of the most ecologically diverse regions on the planet.
- Eastern Africa: This region is characterized by its highlands and the Great Rift Valley. The Ethiopian Highlands, located in this region, are the largest continuous mountain ranges in Africa. The Great Rift Valley, which stretches over 6,000 kilometers from the Red Sea to Zimbabwe, is the largest geological fault zone on earth and is home to several large lakes, such as Lake Victoria, Lake Tanganyika, and Lake Malawi.
- Southern Africa: This region is dominated by several highlands and plateaus, such as the Drakensberg Mountains and the Kalahari and Namib deserts. It also includes several major rivers such as the Zambezi and Limpopo Rivers.
Overall, Africa’s geography is quite unique, resulting in different cultures, customs, and ways of life. The table below also highlights some of the key facts and figures about Africa’s geography.
| Characteristic | Fact/Figure |
|---|---|
| Size | 30 million square kilometers |
| Population | 1.3 billion people |
| Highest point | Mount Kilimanjaro (5,895 meters) |
| Lowest point | Lake Assal, Djibouti (-155 meters below sea level) |
| Longest river | The Nile River (6,650 kilometers) |
The history of Africa’s division into sub-Saharan and North Africa
The continent of Africa can be divided into two major regions: North Africa and Sub-Saharan Africa. The division between the two regions is based on a combination of factors including geography, history, culture, and religion. Knowing their difference is essential in understanding the continent as a whole.
- Geography: North Africa is the region located above the Sahara desert, whereas sub-Saharan Africa is the region located below it. Moreover, the terrain, climate, and vegetation in the north are vastly different from the south, which also contributes to the division between the two regions.
- History: The division between North Africa and sub-Saharan Africa dates back to colonial times. North Africa was heavily influenced by Arab-Islamic culture due to its proximity to the Middle East and the influence of trade routes while sub-Saharan Africa was mostly colonized by European powers – France, Portugal, Britain, and Germany. This difference in colonizers is why Sub-Saharan Africa is often underdeveloped compared to North Africa.
- Culture: North Africa is predominantly Muslim, and the Arabic language is the primary language, and the culture is heavily influenced by Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cultures. The culture in sub-Saharan Africa is more diverse due to the number of ethnic groups and languages spoken, which has led to the development of distinctive regional cultures.
Africa’s division into sub-Saharan and North Africa has significant implications for the continent’s development, politics, and international relations. North Africa’s history, culture, religion, and geography sets it apart from Sub-Saharan Africa and paints a picture of the region that significantly varies from its southern counterpart. Understanding their differences is crucial for policymakers, academics, and business leaders to make informed decisions and to avoid stereotyping the continent as a homogeneous entity.
Table: Countries in North Africa and Sub-Saharan Africa.
| North Africa | Sub-Saharan Africa |
|---|---|
| Algeria | Angola |
| Egypt | Botswana |
| Libya | Cameroon |
| Morocco | Democratic Republic of the Congo |
| Sudan | Kenya |
| Tunisia | Nigeria |
As shown in the table, the countries that are part of Sub-Saharan Africa have a higher number than those in North Africa. However, North Africa has a more significant impact on the continent’s economic and political activities, primarily through its oil production and tourism industry.
Cultural differences between Africa and sub-Saharan Africa
When discussing Africa, it is important to note that the continent is comprised of 54 countries, each with unique cultures, traditions, and languages. Sub-Saharan Africa, on the other hand, refers specifically to the region south of the Sahara Desert that includes 48 countries. While there are many similarities between the cultures of Africa and sub-Saharan Africa, there are also notable differences.
- Religion: In Africa, religion plays a significant role in many aspects of daily life and culture. Islam and Christianity are the two dominant religions, although traditional African religions are also practiced. In sub-Saharan Africa, Christianity and traditional African religions are more prevalent, with a smaller Muslim population.
- Gender Roles: In many African cultures, men hold positions of power and decision-making authority, while women are expected to fulfill caregiving roles and maintain the household. However, in sub-Saharan Africa, there has been progress towards gender equality in recent years, with women taking on more leadership positions in politics and business.
- Art: Art is an integral part of African culture, with a rich history of sculpture, painting, and textiles. In sub-Saharan Africa, traditional art forms are still widely practiced, with many artists creating pieces that reflect their local traditions and cultural values.
While these are just a few examples of the cultural differences between Africa and sub-Saharan Africa, it is important to remember that each country and region within these areas has its own unique traditions and cultural practices. It is important to approach each culture with an open mind and learn about their customs and values in order to truly appreciate and understand them.
Economic Disparities between Africa and Sub-Saharan Africa
Africa is the second-largest continent in the world, comprising 55 sovereign countries with a population of 1.3 billion people. Sub-Saharan Africa, on the other hand, is a subset of Africa that includes 46 of the 55 countries with a population of over one billion people. Despite being so vast and diverse, the economic disparities between Africa and Sub-Saharan Africa are quite significant.
- Disparity in GDP: The gross domestic product (GDP) of Africa is heavily concentrated in a handful of countries, with Nigeria, South Africa, and Egypt accounting for over half of the continent’s GDP. Sub-Saharan Africa, on the other hand, has a much smaller GDP, with many countries being classified as low-income or least developed.
- Infrastructure: Many countries in Sub-Saharan Africa lack basic infrastructure such as roads, electricity, and water supply, making it difficult to attract foreign investment and grow their economies. In contrast, some countries in Africa, such as South Africa and Egypt, have relatively developed infrastructure systems, making them more attractive to foreign investors.
- Trade: Africa’s intra-regional trade is very low, accounting for only 15% of the continent’s total trade. This is due to various factors such as poor infrastructure and protectionist policies. On the other hand, Sub-Saharan Africa has even lower intra-regional trade and relies heavily on imports from outside the region.
Despite these economic disparities, there are efforts underway to bridge the gap between Africa and Sub-Saharan Africa. The African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) agreement, which was adopted in 2018, aims to create a single market for goods and services in Africa, thereby promoting intra-African trade and integration. The World Bank and other multilateral organizations are also providing support to various African countries to improve their infrastructure and create an enabling environment for private sector investment.
| Indicator | Africa | Sub-Saharan Africa |
|---|---|---|
| GDP (nominal) | $2.6 trillion | $1.2 trillion |
| GDP per capita | $1,984 | $1,142 |
| Electricity access | 45% | 29% |
In conclusion, the economic disparities between Africa and Sub-Saharan Africa are significant, with Sub-Saharan Africa generally lagging behind in terms of GDP, infrastructure, and trade. However, there are promising initiatives such as the AfCFTA agreement and international support for development, which provide hope for a more prosperous and integrated Africa in the future.
Political developments in Africa and sub-Saharan Africa
Political developments in Africa and sub-Saharan Africa have been diverse, with various countries experiencing different political systems and changes. Africa is known for its past colonization by European powers and its subsequent struggles for independence and democracy. On the other hand, sub-Saharan Africa is a region located south of the Sahara desert, characterized by vast cultural and linguistic diversity.
- Political systems in Africa
- Political systems in sub-Saharan Africa
- Political changes in Africa
- Political changes in sub-Saharan Africa
- Current political situations in Africa and sub-Saharan Africa:
Africa has a range of political systems, including presidential systems, parliamentary systems, constitutional monarchies, and dictatorships, among others. Some countries, such as South Africa and Nigeria, have established democracies, while others are still under authoritarian regimes.
Sub-Saharan Africa has experienced various political systems similar to those in Africa, including presidential and parliamentary systems, military and one-party states. However, most countries in the region have a parliamentary system of government.
Since the post-colonial period, many African countries have undergone significant political changes, including transitions from authoritarian rule to democratic governance. Countries such as the Republic of Congo, Sierra Leone, and Liberia have had peaceful transitions from civil war to democracy.
Sub-Saharan Africa has also experienced political changes, with some countries transitioning from military to democratic rule. In countries like Ghana, Nigeria, and Senegal, multiparty democratic elections have been held, with peaceful transitions of power taking place, ensuring stability and growth.
Currently, Africa is grappling with various political challenges such as corruption and ethnic conflicts. However, some countries, such as Rwanda, have registered commendable progress in promoting stability and growth. In contrast, sub-Saharan Africa continues to experience challenges such as poverty, weak institutional frameworks, and conflicts, which limit political stability and socio-economic growth.
Recent political developments in Africa
In recent years, some African countries have experienced significant political changes. An example is the historic change in Sudan, where after a 30-year dictatorship, the people of Sudan successfully removed President Omar al-Bashir in 2019. Also, the recent presidential election in Malawi, where the country’s Constitutional Court overturned the presidential election results in 2020, reflects the strengthening of democratic institutions in the country.
| Country | Political System | Recent Political Developments |
|---|---|---|
| South Africa | Parliamentary | Successful transition from apartheid to democracy in 1994 |
| Nigeria | Presidential | Civilian rule since 1999 after over a decade of military rule |
| Rwanda | Presidential | Made significant economic progress and has been politically stable since the 1994 genocide |
Overall, African countries have varied political systems that have undergone significant changes over the years. While progress has been made in some countries, others continue to face challenges such as corruption and weak institutions, limiting their political stability and socio-economic growth.
Insurgencies and conflicts in sub-Saharan Africa
Sub-Saharan Africa is often plagued by conflicts and insurgencies which have significantly impacted economic and social development in the region. In contrast to northern Africa, sub-Saharan Africa has been the stage of numerous civil wars which have caused massive human suffering and set back development by decades.
- The conflict in South Sudan, which stemmed from a power struggle between the country’s political leaders, has resulted in one of the most devastating humanitarian crises in recent times. According to the United Nations, about 4 million people were forced to flee their homes, and an estimated 7.5 million people are in need of humanitarian assistance. Since the conflict began, thousands of people have been killed, with many still trapped in areas affected by the fighting.
- In Nigeria, the Boko Haram insurgency has caused widespread violence and displacement. Since 2009, the group has carried out numerous attacks on civilians, including kidnappings, bombings, and assassinations. The group’s attacks have affected neighboring countries such as Chad, Cameroon, and Niger. As a result, over 2.3 million people have been displaced in the Lake Chad region, with many still living in precarious conditions.
- The conflict in the Central African Republic has caused a significant humanitarian crisis, with over 600,000 people displaced and thousands killed since the crisis began in 2012. The conflict is mainly between Christian militias and Muslim rebels, who formed after the ousting of former President Francois Bozize. The ongoing conflict has severely affected the country’s economy and social fabric, with many people losing their homes and livelihoods.
In addition to these conflicts, sub-Saharan Africa is plagued by numerous other insurgencies and conflicts such as the Somali Civil War, the conflict in Darfur, and the ongoing conflict in the DRC, among others.
It is not just communities in the region that pay a price for these conflicts and insurgencies, but also the local and global economy. The cost of these conflicts is estimated to be around $157 billion per year, and it has resulted in significant cuts in public spending on health, education, and infrastructure.
| Country | Conflict | Casualties |
|---|---|---|
| Somalia | Somali Civil War | 500,000 |
| Nigeria | Boko Haram insurgency | 36,000 |
| South Sudan | South Sudanese Civil War | 400,000 |
| Democratic Republic of Congo | Ituri conflict | 60,000 |
| Central African Republic | Central African Republic Civil War | 14,000 |
The way forward in ending conflicts and insurgencies in sub-Saharan Africa is complex and multifaceted. It requires addressing the root causes of these conflicts such as poor governance, low levels of economic development, and political instability. Additionally, finding peaceful resolutions to these conflicts demands strengthening inclusive governance, building effective institutions, and prioritizing sustainable socio-economic development.
International relations of Africa and sub-Saharan Africa
One major difference between Africa and sub-Saharan Africa is their respective relationships with the global community. While Africa maintains diplomatic relations with both developed and developing nations, sub-Saharan Africa primarily interacts with other developing nations.
The following are some key differences in the international relations of Africa and sub-Saharan Africa:
- Africa participates in the G20, which is a group of the world’s largest economies that come together to discuss global economic issues. Sub-Saharan Africa is not included in the G20.
- Africa is a member of the African Union (AU), an organization that promotes political and economic cooperation among African countries. The AU works to improve trade, security, and governance across the continent. Sub-Saharan Africa is not a member of the AU, but individual countries within the region are members.
- Africa has a strong relationship with China, which has invested heavily in infrastructure projects throughout the continent. Conversely, sub-Saharan Africa as a region has a lesser relationship with China, although individual countries within the region have formed partnerships with the Chinese government.
Overall, Africa as a whole has a stronger presence in global politics and economics than sub-Saharan Africa. However, both regions face unique challenges in their international relations, including issues related to trade, security, and development.
Looking at the table below, we can compare the specific relationships between Africa and sub-Saharan Africa with different global regions:
| Region | Africa | Sub-Saharan Africa |
|---|---|---|
| Europe | Cooperation on trade and security | Primarily interacts with France, Portugal, UK, and Germany |
| China | Strong trade relationship, heavy Chinese investment in infrastructure | Individual countries have formed relationships with China |
| United States | US is a major destination for African exports; cooperation on security issues | Primarily interacts with US through aid and development assistance |
Overall, understanding the differences in how Africa and sub-Saharan Africa interact with the global community can provide insight into their respective roles in global politics and economics.
What is the difference between Africa and Sub Saharan Africa?
Q: Is Africa and Sub Saharan Africa the same thing?
A: No, Africa is a continent which includes various regions and countries. Sub Saharan Africa refers specifically to the region south of the Sahara desert.
Q: What countries are included in Sub Saharan Africa?
A: Sub Saharan Africa includes all the countries that are situated south of the Sahara desert, including but not limited to: Nigeria, South Africa, Kenya, Tanzania, Ethiopia, Ghana, Uganda, and Angola.
Q: What are the major differences between Africa and Sub Saharan Africa?
A: Africa is a continent, while Sub Saharan Africa is a specific region within Africa. Moreover, Sub Saharan Africa is characterized by its ecological diversity, which greatly varies from other regions within the continent due to differences in climate, flora, and fauna.
Q: Are there any cultural differences between Africa and Sub Saharan Africa?
A: As Africa is a large and diverse continent, it has a mix of different cultures and traditions. However, Sub Saharan Africa has a distinct cultural identity that sets it apart from other regions within Africa, including its music, art, and dance styles.
Q: Why is it important to understand the difference between Africa and Sub Saharan Africa?
A: Understanding the difference between Africa and Sub Saharan Africa is crucial for gaining insight into the region’s unique characteristics and history, as well as to appreciate its cultural and ecological diversity.
Closing Thoughts
Now that you have a better understanding of the difference between Africa and Sub Saharan Africa, we hope you learned something new and interesting. Thank you for reading, and be sure to visit us again for more fascinating articles!