Desertification: Sahel Flashcards
1
Q
General information
A
The Sahel is a narrow belt of semi-arid land which lies south of the Sahara and extends across Africa. It has recently been suffering from desertification.
2
Q
Causes
A
Deforestation-collection of firewood
War
Change in rainfall pattern lead to drought
Overgrazing-loss of land to National Parks and other developments
Population growth-growing at 3% a year and doubling every 20 years
Soil erosion
Increased demand for resources-fuelwood, water
3
Q
Effects
A
Soil loses vegetation
In 1970s, concern about Sahara advancing southwards by 5-10km a year
Land becomes salty
Starvation
