Theory question 114
Geography of AfricaDiscuss the distinguishing characteristics of each of any three of the following (a) Plantation agriculture in East Africa (b) Irrigation farming in the Nile Valley (c) Pastoral nomadism in West Africa (d) Fruits farming in Southern Africa.
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Any three:
Plantations (East Africa): large estates of one crop (tea, sisal, coffee, sugar); large capital, often foreign or state-owned; hired labour; scientific methods, fertilisers; processing on the estate; produce for export
Nile irrigation: water from the Nile through dams, barrages and canals; basin and perennial irrigation, shaduf/sakia; intensive farming of small plots; 2-3 crops a year (cotton, rice, wheat, sugar cane)
Pastoral nomadism (West Africa): Fulani herders move cattle seasonally in search of water and pasture (north in rains, south in dry season); large herds as wealth; little use of veterinary care; temporary dwellings; conflict with farmers
Fruit farming (South Africa): Mediterranean climate of the SW Cape; grapes, citrus, apples, pears; irrigation; large modern farms; packing and canning; export through Cape Town
Give the distinguishing features, not just a definition.