Answer: The West African coastal belt is one of the most densely settled areas of Africa south of the Sahara. Its favorable geographical features, access to resources, and economic opportunities have contributed to high population density in cities and urban centers along the coast. Therefore, the correct answer is d) West African coastal belt.
Step-by-step explanation:
One of the most dense settlement areas of Africa south of the Sahara is in the West African coastal belt.
- The West African coastal belt is a region that stretches along the western coast of Africa, from Senegal in the north to Nigeria in the east. This region includes countries such as Senegal, Gambia, Guinea-Bissau, Sierra Leone, Liberia, Côte d'Ivoire, Ghana, Togo, Benin, and Nigeria.
- The West African coastal belt is home to several major cities and urban centers, including Dakar (Senegal), Abidjan (Côte d'Ivoire), Accra (Ghana), and Lagos (Nigeria). These cities have experienced significant population growth over the years, leading to high population density.
- The coastal belt provides access to important resources such as fertile land, freshwater sources, and coastal trade routes. This has historically attracted settlements and facilitated economic activities, contributing to population concentration in the region.
- The coastal belt also benefits from its proximity to the Atlantic Ocean, which has facilitated trade, fishing, and transportation, further supporting the growth of settlements and urbanization in the area.