West Africa is made up of plains and some low and high mountains. The region has four climate zones - the Sahara desert in the north, the dry Sahel grasslands, the savanna with grass, trees and tsetse flies, and the coastal rainforests. The Niger River is the most important river, flowing east and south for 2,600 miles through West Africa and watering the region via its inland delta of channels, swamps and lakes. West Africa has mineral resources like diamonds, gold, and oil, with Nigeria being a major oil exporter accounting for 95% of its exports.

1. West AfricaChapter 21

2. Physical GeographySection 1

3. Landforms & ClimateRegion of plainsSome low & high mts.Region’s climates are zonal4 ZonesThe Sahara: largest desert; northernmost parts of region; few to no peopleSteppe Climate: the Sahel an area of dry grasslands (the Sahel); rain fall varies; harmattan winds in the winter (dry, dusty winds); 1960s drought led to failed crops, overgrazing by animals, cutting of trees for firewood, & winds blowing away fertile soil causing death to many people & animalsThe Savanna: good soil, thick grass, & scattered tall trees; dangerous tsetse fly lives here, caused sleeping sickness & deathThe Coast & Forest: many of largest cities are here, wet, humid climate; plentiful rain supports rain forests; trees have been cut to back way for expanding populations; environmental damage is a serious problem

4. The Niger RiverMost important in West AfricaStarts 150 miles from Atlantic Ocean & flows east & southward for 2,600 milesBrings life-giving water to West AfricaDivides into network of channels, swamps, & lakes in areas (inland delta)

5. ResourcesMineral riches: diamonds, gold, iron ore, & manganese, & bauxiteNigeria is a major exporter of oil95% of exports