<h4>Geographical Overview</h4><p><strong>Africa</strong> is the world's <strong>second-largest continent</strong>, strategically bordered by major water bodies. Its geographical position plays a crucial role in global trade and climate patterns.</p><div class='info-box'><ul><li><strong>North:</strong> <strong>Mediterranean Sea</strong></li><li><strong>North-East:</strong> <strong>Red Sea</strong></li><li><strong>East:</strong> <strong>Indian Ocean</strong></li><li><strong>West:</strong> <strong>Atlantic Ocean</strong></li></ul></div><p>The continent is almost equally divided by the <strong>Equator</strong>, resulting in a diverse range of climates and ecosystems across its vast expanse.</p><h4>Major Physical Regions</h4><p>Africa boasts <strong>eight major physical regions</strong>, each contributing to its unique biodiversity and environmental characteristics. These regions influence local economies and human settlements.</p><div class='info-box'><ul><li>The vast <strong>Sahara Desert</strong></li><li>The semi-arid <strong>Sahel</strong> region</li><li>The elevated <strong>Ethiopian Highlands</strong></li><li>Extensive <strong>savannas</strong></li><li>The coastal <strong>Swahili Coast</strong></li><li>Dense <strong>rainforests</strong></li><li>The geological marvels of the <strong>African Great Lakes</strong></li><li>The diverse landscapes of <strong>Southern Africa</strong></li></ul></div><h4>Population and Demographics</h4><p>Africa is the <strong>second-most populous continent</strong> globally, following <strong>Asia</strong>. This large and rapidly growing population presents both opportunities and challenges for development.</p><div class='key-point-box'><p>By <strong>2034</strong>, Africa is projected to have the <strong>world's largest working-age population</strong>, reaching an estimated <strong>1.1 billion</strong> people. This demographic dividend holds immense potential for economic growth.</p></div><p>The continent's population is expected to <strong>double in the next 35 years</strong>, reaching nearly <strong>2.4 billion people</strong>, with a significant increase in the <strong>under-18 population</strong>. This highlights future demands on education, health, and employment.</p><h4>Economic Landscape</h4><p>Africa's economy is characterized by a significant reliance on <strong>agriculture</strong>, which forms the backbone of livelihoods for a large portion of its populace.</p><div class='info-box'><ul><li><strong>Agriculture</strong> employs <strong>65-70%</strong> of Africa’s labor force.</li><li>It accounts for <strong>30-40%</strong> of its <strong>Gross Domestic Product (GDP)</strong>.</li></ul></div><p>Beyond agriculture, Africa has a <strong>diverse economic base</strong>. Sectors such as <strong>mining</strong> and <strong>tourism</strong> contribute significantly to the continent's overall economic output and offer avenues for diversification and growth.</p><h4>Climate Characteristics</h4><p>Africa is recognized as the <strong>world's hottest continent</strong>. Its vast size and geographical features lead to a wide array of climatic conditions across its regions.</p><div class='info-box'><p>Climate zones range from the extremely <strong>arid conditions</strong> of the <strong>Sahara Desert</strong> in the north to the <strong>lush, humid rainforests</strong> found in equatorial regions.</p></div><p>The continent's <strong>highest point</strong> is <strong>Mount Kilimanjaro</strong> in <strong>Tanzania</strong>, an iconic landmark that also showcases its varied topography.</p><h4>Trade Relations and Partners</h4><p>In terms of international trade, <strong>China</strong> has emerged as <strong>Africa's top trade partner</strong>. This partnership underscores the growing economic ties between the two regions.</p><div class='info-box'><p><strong>Sino-African trade volumes</strong> are nearing <strong>USD 200 billion per year</strong>. This robust trade relationship involves various goods and services.</p></div><p>The presence of Chinese residents is notable in several African nations, with <strong>Angola</strong>, for example, hosting a large Chinese population, indicative of deeper economic and social connections.</p><h4>Mineral Resources and Production</h4><p>Africa is exceptionally rich in mineral resources, with <strong>gold</strong> and <strong>diamonds</strong> being its <strong>two most profitable mineral resources</strong>, significantly contributing to global supply chains.</p><div class='info-box'><ul><li>In <strong>2021</strong>, Africa produced <strong>680.3 metric tons of gold</strong>.</li><li>The <strong>Witwatersrand</strong> region in <strong>South Africa</strong> is a major gold-producing area, renowned for its extensive gold deposits.</li></ul></div><p>The continent also holds a dominant position in the global <strong>diamond market</strong>. Africa produces approximately <strong>65% of the world’s diamonds by value each year</strong>, highlighting its critical role in the jewelry and industrial diamond sectors.</p><p>Beyond precious metals and gems, <strong>petroleum</strong> and <strong>coal</strong> are among the most abundant minerals. These energy resources are vital for <strong>22 out of Africa’s 54 countries</strong>, impacting their energy security and economic development.</p>