Cameroon has a diverse history. Bantu speakers first settled the region, followed by Muslim Fulani people in the 18th-19th centuries. Germany established colonial rule in 1884 through treaties with tribal chiefs. After World War I, France and Britain divided control over Cameroon. Cameroon gained independence in 1961 after unifying former British and French colonies. Cameroon has a population affected by HIV/AIDS and resulting impacts on life expectancy, mortality and population. The country has wildlife reserves that attract tourism and conservation projects. Cameroon is located in central Africa between Nigeria and Equatorial Guinea, with diverse geography and borders several neighboring countries.