Africa
Africa is the world's second-largest continent by area and second-most populous continent.
Africa is the world's second-largest continent by area and second-most populous, with about 1.4 billion people across 54 recognized countries. It is widely regarded as the birthplace of humankind.
What it is
Africa spans about 30,365,000 km² and is bounded by the Mediterranean Sea, Atlantic Ocean, Red Sea, and Indian Ocean. It includes diverse landscapes such as the Sahara Desert (the world's largest hot desert), savannas, rainforests, and major river systems.
Key details
The continent has 54 internationally recognized sovereign states and is the second-most populous after Asia. Its highest point is Mount Kilimanjaro. Africa covers roughly one-fifth of Earth's land surface.
Why it matters
Africa is central to human history as the birthplace of humankind, with early human evolution evidence found there. For Canadian readers, the continent matters through diplomatic, trade, development, and diaspora ties.
In short
- Second-largest continent after Asia
- About 1.4 billion people across 54 countries
- Birthplace of humankind
- Sahara is the world's largest hot desert
Africa matters to Canadian readers through Canada’s diplomatic, trade, development, and diaspora ties with countries across the continent.
Quick questions
How many countries are in Africa?
Is Africa the largest continent?
Why is Africa important in human history?
Sources
- Encyclopaedia Britannica — https://www.britannica.com/place/AfricaSupports: Continent size, boundaries, and general geographic facts.
- Encyclopaedia Britannica — https://www.britannica.com/summary/AfricaSupports: Area, geography, and birthplace of humankind.
- Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/AfricaSupports: Population estimate and count of recognized sovereign states.
- U.S. Africa Trade — https://www.usafricatrade.org/facts-about-africa/Supports: Population estimate and continental share of global population.
- Kids World Travel Guide — https://www.kids-world-travel-guide.com/africa-facts.htmlSupports: 54 countries in Africa and general continental facts.
- BBC Bitesize — https://www.bbc.co.uk/bitesize/articles/z27gcmnSupports: Countries, major geographic features, and general regional overview.