GEOGRAPHY NOTES FOR ADVANCED LEVEL – Form 5 and 6

THE LARGEST LAKES IN AFRICA

1. Lake Victoria

Lake
Victoria sits as the largest lake on the African continent. It encompasses
a surface area of 23,146 sq mi or 59,947 sq km. Covering this vast space,
the lake is also the world’s biggest tropical lake. It seconds Lake
Superior’s size when it comes to the largest freshwater
lakes in the world. The lake receives most of its water from rainfall with only
one outlet through the Nile
River. It was named after Queen Victoria by explorer John
Hanning Speke, the first man to document the lake in 1858. With a volume of
2,424 cubic kilometers and a maximum depth of 276 feet or 84 meters, Lake
Victoria holds the ninth spot as the largest
lake in the world by volume. It touches three African
countries, namely Kenya, Tanzania,
and Uganda.

2. Lake Tanganyika

Lake
Tanganyika is the longest freshwater lake in the world. It is located between
Tanzania, Burundi, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Zambia, although most
of the lake is situated in Burundi and Tanzania. It is the second largest lake
by volume, second deepest, and second oldest. In all cases, only Lake Baikal in
Russia is larger.  

Contained
on either side by the Great Rift Valley and surrounding mountains, Lake
Tanganyika is exceptionally deep. 

Lake
Tanganyika holds 4,500 cubic miles of water and covers an area of 12,700 square
miles. Its deepest point is 4,820 feet, while its average depth is 1,870 feet.

3. Lake Nyassa

Similar
to Lake Victoria, Lake Nyasa is part of the African Great Lakes system.
Bordered by Malawi, Tanzania and Mozambique, it’s the third-largest lake in the
East African Rift Valley system. 

The
Nyasa or Malawi beaches are magnificent tourist attractions, whereas Tanzania
beaches such as Matema Beach are less developed.

4. Lake Chad

Lake
Chad is a desert lake and is bordered by the Sahara Desert. It is an important
water source for the people living in the area. It’s surrounded by four
countries including Chad, Cameroon, Niger and Nigeria.

It’s a
very shallow lake and, depending on drought conditions, it can vary widely in
size. The lake experiences very high levels of evaporation. Due to this high
rate of evaporation, the shores are primarily marshlands.

5. Lake Turkana

Formerly
known as Lake Rudolf, Lake Turkana is located in the Kenyan Rift Valley in
Kenya and crosses into Ethiopia at
its northern end. Lake Turkana has a total surface area of 2,473 sq mi or
6,405 sq km, making it the world’s largest permanent desert lake and the
world’s largest alkaline lake. It is nicknamed the “Jade Sea” because of
its stunning turquoise color. As a desert lake and an alkaline lake, Lake
Turkana is generally shallow and salty due to its high concentration of
dissolved salt minerals. Lake Turkana also holds the number 4 spot on the
largest salt lakes in the world by water volume.

6. Lake Albert

Lake
Albert is located between Uganda and Congo. It has a surface area of 2,000
square miles and has a capacity of 32 cubic miles of water. Its average depth
is 82 feet, while its deepest point is 167 feet. It is approximately 100 miles
long and 19 miles wide. Its primary source of water is the Victoria Nile.

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MAIZE

Maize (Zea mays) is a large grain plant. Historically, it was first grown by indigenous peoples in Southern Mexico about 10,000 years ago before spreading to other parts of the world. Currently, maize is a crop that is grown both on a large-scale and small-scale. In developed countries, maize is used for feeding livestock while in developing countries it is used for human consumption and serves as a staple food

Conditions for growth of maize

Maize is widely cultivated and grown in both tropical and warm temperate latitudes. Maize is grown in temperatures between 18°C and 37°C during the day and around 14°C during the night. It needs a total of 140 days of frost-free condition. The Cultivation and growing of maize are limited in temperate latitudes because it is very susceptible to frost. It requires sunny and dry conditions for ripening and harvesting periods

Maize requires at least 500 to 1000 mm of rainfall. It is grown mostly in regions having annual rainfall between 600mm to 1100mm. But it is also grown in areas having rainfall of about 400mm. In East Africa, maize can be grown in areas receiving between 300 and 1800 mm of annual rainfall. The crop can also be grown successfully under irrigation

Maize can grow on a wide range of soils. However, it grows at best in well-drained and well-aerated soils. Such soil includes loam, silty loams or alluvial soils with a pH of 5.5 to 7.0. Moreover, maize does not tolerate water-logging condition. Fairly flat land is most suitable for maize cultivation. This is because the flat land enables the use of machines. However, maize is also cultivated on undulating lands as well as on lower slopes of the hills. Little maize is grown in altitudes above 2000 m. This is because only long-term varieties can survive in high altitudes 2000 m

Land preparation for maize

For Large scale farms, the land for maize growing is prepared using machinery and farm equipment such as tractors, ploughs and harrows. The land is first cleared followed with two phases of ploughing. Then a harrow is used to cut the soil into small lumps and to remove the weeds before planting. On small-scale farms the land can be prepared by using ox-drawn mould board ploughs and even hand hoes. Ploughing should go a depth of at least 20 cm. The ploughing for small scale maize farming needs to be completed in two to three weeks before the onset of the rains to allow the weeds to wither and die

Planting and caring for the maize crop

The first step towards obtaining good maize harvest is ensuring that the farm is well-ploughed and ready for planting. After preparing the land, the farmer should then plan for the planting process by budgeting for and acquiring inputs such as fertilizers and seeds. Planting is done at the beginning of the rainy season, and it should be done when the soil is slightly wet. On large scale farms, holes are dug by tractor-pulled planters which drop maize in each hole as the tractor moves along. The machine then covers the holes with a light layer of soil. The space between holes may vary between 23 cm and 30 cm. The rows may be between 60 cm and 90 cm apart

At planting a phosphate fertilizer such as Diammonium Phosphate (DAP) is applied to the soil. Apply the fertilizer at a rate of about one teaspoon per hole. When the maize is at knee-high, which is about 3 – 4 weeks after planting, nitrate fertilizers are applied as top dressing. It is applied around the plant, and one should repeat application at later stage when the maize is about 8 – 10 weeks for best results. Urea may burn the plant if it touches the plant and therefore it should be applied at least 5 – 6 cm around the plant and not placed too far as it will not benefit the plant

Weed control is vital in maize farming because they compete with the crop for water, nutrients, space and sunlight. Weeds may be controlled by hand weeding or using herbicides. The herbicides are chemicals that kill the weeds while leaving the crop unharmed. If a hand hoe is used, maize farmers are advised to weed at least twice with the first weeding being done at around 3 weeks after planting and the second weeding at 8 weeks after planting

If the maize is planted in an area where it is likely to be attacked by insects or diseases, the correct pesticides must be used. Pesticides are chemicals used to kill the pests and treat diseases. The crop can also be irrigated if there is no sufficient rainfall during growing period

Harvesting maize

The right stage to harvest maize is when the stalks have dried, and the moisture of grains is in a reasonable amount. It is advisable to harvest maize as soon as it is dry. If it overstays in the field, it will be attacked by weevils or termites. On small-scale farms, the maize cobs are harvested manually by hands. On largescale farms, maize harvesters can be used if manual labour is not available and relatively cheap

Processing maize

Maize processing involves shelling which involves removing the grains from cobs. This can be done by using hands, beating with sticks, or using simple machines called maize shellers. Maize shellers can be driven manually or by motors. After shelling, the grains are winnowed to remove any thresh, remains of cobs or any dirt

Transportation and storage of maize

The storage system for maize grains needs to remain dry and clean all the time. The dry and clean storage avoids deterioration in the quality and quantity of the grains. On small-scale farms, maize cobs are packed in sacks and then transported to homes by using carts, tractor pulled trailer or other means. The cobs are then laid on the ground to dry perfectly before storing in granaries. Some farmers fill maize grains in sacks and store them in their houses to await sale. In large scale farms, the dry, shelled grains are packed in sacks and stored in silos. The grain is transported to the market by using various means of transport

Major Producing Countries for Respective Crops in the World

Identify and locate major producing countries for respective crops in the world

Major World Producers of Tea

TTop tea producing countries are China, India, Kenya, Sri Lanka, Turkey, Viet Nam, Indonesia, Japan, Argentina, Thailand, Bangladesh, Malawi, Uganda, Iran, Tanzania, Myanmar, Zimbabwe, Rwanda, Mozambique, and Nepal. China, India, Kenya and Sri Lanka together represent 75% of world production

Major World Producers of Cotton

Being the most sought-after raw material in the world, there is a huge competition between the countries for the commercial production of cotton. Major world producers of cotton are China, India, USA, Pakistan, Brazil, Uzbekistan, Turkey, Australia, Turkmenistan, Mexico, Argentina, and Greece

Major World Producers of Sugarcane

World’s top 10 producers of sugarcane are Brazil, India, China, Thailand, Pakistan, Mexico, Colombia, Indonesia, Philippines, and USA. Others are Australia, Indonesia, Cuba, South Africa, Argentina, Myanmar, and Bangladesh

Major World Producers of Maize

Maize is a cereal crop which is cultivated widely throughout the world. The United States produces 40% of the world’s harvest. Other top producing countries include China, Brazil, Mexico, Indonesia, India, France, Argentina, South Africa, and Ukraine

Major World Producers of Wheat

The following are the top ten wheat-producing countries: China, India, USA, France, Russia, Australia, Canada, Pakistan, Germany, and Turkey. In east Africa, Kenya is the leading wheat producer, followed by Tanzania

Major World Producers of Coffee

The world’s top 16 largest coffee-producing countries as of 2017 are Brazil, Vietnam, Colombia, Indonesia, Ethiopia, India, Honduras, Uganda, Mexico, Guatemala, Peru, Nicaragua, Cote d’Ivoire, Costa Rica, Kenya, and Tanzania

Contribution of Produced Crops to the Economy of USA and Tanzania

Describe contribution of produced crops to the economy of USA and Tanzania

USA, like Tanzania, relies on different cash crops for economic growth. The following are contributions of cash crop farming to the economy of USA and Tanzania:

1. Foreign currency earnings: Cash crops contribute to earnings of foreign currencies through exports of various crops. The cash crops which the USA exports include maize, soybeans, wheat, cotton, tobacco, rice, sorghum, and barley, among others. Tanzania also earns foreign exchange by exporting crops. The main export crops of Tanzania include sugar, coffee, cotton, tobacco, and tea. The agriculture sector in the country is extremely diverse. Crop production accounts for 55% of agricultural GDP, livestock for 30% and natural resources for 15%
2. Industrial growth: Cash crops contribute to the growth of various processing and manufacturing industries because the crops provide raw materials. For example, cotton produced in both countries is used in textile industries for making clothes and other materials. Also tea, coffee, and sisal feed the respective processing industries found in these countries
3. Growth of the livestock sector: In the USA about 33% of the maize produced is used to feed livestock while only 11% is exported. This has contributed, a great deal to the growth of livestock farming in the country.
4. Source of household income and employment: Cash crop farming is a source of income for farmers. It also provides employment to different people engaged directly and indirectly in the agricultural sector. For example, people are employed in farms to carry out diverse farm operations related to preparation and processing of the agricultural produce. Additionally, people are employed in the processing and manufacturing industries and trade in agricultural products. This has helped to curb unemployment problem in both countries.
5. Food security: Cash crop production leads to surplus production of food crops which ensures sufficient food supply in the country. The sufficiency and surplus in food supply enables the respective countries to export and supply other countries that experience food shortage. This in turn ensures food security at global level.
6. Improvement of transport and communication facilities: The presence of cash crops has led to the improvement of various transportation infrastructures to and from production areas. Governments invest in development of transport and communication facilities in order to facilitate the transportation of farm inputs and produce to the market.
7. Growth of towns and cities: Cash crop production contributes to the growth of towns and cities. The towns and cities grow because the people migrate to them to work in the farms and processing industries lead to increase in population. Production areas and processing industries lead establishment and availability of key social services in which people work and also the same areas attract other people for other activities like business. For example, Kagera town in Tanzania has grown to the current status partly due to the production of coffee in the region.

Explain Problems Facing Large Scale Agriculture (Tanzania and USA Case Study)

Drawing example from Tanzania and USA explain problems facing large scale agriculture

A number of natural and human aspects constitute the problems that face large scale agriculture in Tanzania

1. Harsh climatic conditions

Adverse impacts of harsh climate conditions such as too little and heavy rainfall or too high temperature lower crop yield. The fluctuations in the amount of annual rainfall in absence of well-established irrigation schemes affect crop production and significantly lower the crop yield

2. Pests, diseases and weeds

Many weeds, pests, and fungi thrive under warmer temperatures, wetter climates, and increased carbon dioxide levels. Outbreaks of crop pests and disease Lead to loss of yields usually in two ways. First, there is loss due to destruction of crops, and hence reduction in yields. Second, loss of yield because significant amount of money spent on pesticides, herbicides and other farm operations in order to control the pests, disease and alien weeds. This means that farmers spend money which could be used to improve both quality and quantity of crop produce. The common crop pests in Tanzania include weaver birds (Queleaquelea), cotton bollworms, rats and a myriad of other crop pests including locusts

3. Loss of soil fertility

Most cash crops in large-scale farms are grown under monoculture and intensive use of machinery. This practice leads to loss of soil nutrients as well as the destruction of soil structure. On the long run, the soil becomes infertile for crop cultivation as the costs to replenish its fertility significantly outweigh returns from the produce. Besides soil fertility loss, the overuse of agrochemicals such as fertilizers, pesticides, herbicides are harmful and detrimental to soil microorganisms an aspect which hinders natural replenishment of the soil fertility. The use of machinery in performing different farm operations leads to soil compaction affecting soil aeration and root penetration of the crops

4. Poor resource management

Poor management of the factors of production is a barrier to successful large-scale agriculture in Tanzania and many parts of Africa. Embezzlement of funds allocated for the development of large-scale farms and poor labour management cause some plantations to close down

5. Poor financial support

The government lack enough capital required by farmers to grow, expand and maintain production at large scales. Most commercial banks are not willing to lend money to farmers because adverse weather and climatic conditions have been recurring in recent decades. This has caused farming to become an unpredictable business and commercial banks are unwilling to offer loans to farmers

6. Fluctuation in price

There are sharp fluctuations in the price of agricultural crops commonly in the world market. Decrease in prices of some agricultural produce occurs due to the availability of substitutes of some agricultural products caused by scientific innovations. For example, the price of cotton in the world market decreased following discovery and production of synthetic fibres produced from organic materials. Similarly, sharp drop in the price of coffee price in the world market occurred due to many beverage industries extracting and using coffee related ingredients from other crops and plants. As a result, most coffee growers in Tanzania have cut down their coffee trees and resorted to the growing of other crops

7. Expensive inputs

Large-scale agriculture requires a lot of inputs including fertilizers, seeds and machinery. In case of a rise in the price of inputs, farmers may not afford them, or they may be forced to take loans which they are unable to repay when crop price drops down

8. Land encroachment

In large-scale farming, vast stretches of land are used to grow crops. Sometimes landless people invade the farms to acquire the land by force for settlement or substance farming. Usually, the land invasion depends on the political condition in the respective locations and involves destruction of crops, disruption of the production processes and unplanned closure of production.

Problems Facing Large Scale Agriculture in the USA

1. Harsh climatic conditions

Hazardous climatic conditions affect agriculture in the USA as well. In particular, more extreme temperature and precipitation can prevent crops from growing. Extreme events, especially floods, droughts, and frost usually harm crops and reduce yields

1. Pests, diseases and weeds

Currently, the USA farmers spend more money per year to control weeds, which compete with crops for light, water, and nutrients. The ranges and distribution of weeds and pests are likely to increase with climate change. This causes new problems which that crop farmers are not used and may lack immediate control measures. When the severity of problems is great, it leads to unexpected low yields of agricultural produce. In such situations farmers may fail to recover the operational costs and face challenges to serve the loans from the commercial banks

iii. Resource depletion

The USA agriculture has become increasingly industrialized, placing ever-greater demands on fossil fuel, water and soil resources. Mechanized agriculture has led to excessive use of fossil fuels which leads to more pollution of the air, water and soil resources. The mechanized agriculture is posing more demand of the petroleum as a fossil fuel trucks and mechanized farm equipment. It also constitutes the materials for manufacturing of synthetic pesticides and fertilizers used in large scale agriculture production., Furthermore, large scale agriculture uses a lot of water for irrigation and other farm operations. According to the US Geological Society, the amount of ground water drawn for use in irrigation has tripled since the 1950s.While water resources are not permanently finite, they do have limits. Over-cultivation and use of fertilizers and other agrochemicals destroy soil structure. Soil is eroding and losing the nutrients for crops and other plants at much faster than the capacity to replenish through natural processes. Moreover, agriculture contributes among the leading causes of desertification because of the practices of over cultivation, overgrazing, and overuse of water

iv.Loss of soil fertility

Monoculture system of farming removes nutrients from the soil that are not sufficiently replenished with the application of fertilizers. Many maize, soybean, and wheat farmers have switched to rotating crops from year to year to replenish the soil nutrients naturally. Livestock management also significantly contributes to the degradation of arable land. Specifically, the continual overgrazing eliminates hardy grasses, creates dry soil conditions, and promotes the growth of weedy shrubs, such as sagebrush

1. Population pressure

Population increase or urbanization process insert more pressure to the land resource. More agricultural land is changed to other uses like settlement and industrial uses which cause land scarcity to the agricultural activities

1. Government policy

Currently, in the USA there is an acute shortage of migrant workers to work in agricultural farms. The recent restrictions on immigration policy have significantly cut down the supply of imported workforce or labour. The shortage of labour is exacerbated by the fact that, very few native Americans are used and have positive attitude working in farming activities which involve substantial amount of manual work

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Why Study Geography? At first glance, it might seem like it’s all about maps and mountain ranges. But delve a little deeper, and you’ll find that geography is the key to understanding the intricate web that connects our world’s physical landscapes, diverse cultures, and delicate environments. It’s not just about knowing places; it’s about comprehending how these places interact and influence each other.

By diving into geography, we equip ourselves with the knowledge to make informed decisions and broaden our perspective on global issues, fostering a true sense of global awareness. Whether you’re curious about bustling urban centres, serene natural habitats, or the traditions that define various cultures, geography provides the answers.

Why is geography important?

The importance of geography is simple. It isn’t just an academic subject; it’s a portal to understanding the world around us. Here are some of the benefits of studying geography, and how it is an important step for anyone aiming to be a globally aware individual:

1. Unlocking a world of career opportunities:

Sheffield’s BA Geography course isn’t just about studying maps and terrains. It is a path to many professional opportunities. The University’s curriculum is crafted to ensure students develop a keen understanding of intricate socio-political and cultural challenges.

This deep understanding has paved the way for many of Sheffield’s alumni to venture into fields such as policy development, social research, and even data science. With an emphasis on data analysis, Sheffield’s courses also cater to those with a love for data visualisation.

The knowledge students acquire isn’t confined to the classroom. Many graduates harness their understanding of human-environment interactions in careers related to urban planning, surveying, and environmental conservation. A look at Sheffield’s career paths reveals many different roles, from positions in local government and renowned organisations like Transport for London, Accenture, and the NHS, to roles at Channel 4, Deloitte, and the Campaign to Protect Rural England.

But that’s not all. Sheffield’s course structure ensures students gain many perspectives on global issues, enabling you to tackle problems with a broad, informed view. And as you journey through the course, there’s a focus not just on academic skill, but also on cultivating personal skills and wellness approaches – the Sheffield Graduate Attributes and Geography Graduate Attributes. These attributes aren’t just buzzwords, either; they are essential tools that will boost your personal growth and employability.

2. Embracing global diversity:

Geography offers a ticket to traverse the world from your classroom. It provides invaluable insights into diverse cultures, painting vivid pictures of their unique geographical backdrops. Such understanding fosters appreciation for the varied tapestry of traditions, customs, and lifestyles across the globe, bridging cultural divides and nurturing global camaraderie.

3. Navigating the world with confidence:

Ever felt the thrill of successfully navigating unfamiliar terrain using just a map? Geography doesn’t just enhance that skill; it perfects it. It hones spatial awareness, ensuring that whether you’re exploring a bustling city or a serene countryside, you’re equipped to find your way with confidence.

4. Get a grasp on globalisation:

In today’s intertwined world, it’s vital to grasp the complex field of globalisation. Geography helps break down these concepts and ideas, revealing how regions, economies, and cultures are connected in this global tapestry.

5. Satisfying natural world curiosity:

Humans have an innate desire to understand their environment. Geography feeds this curiosity, offering a deep dive into the planet’s physical wonders. Whether it’s unravelling the mysteries of shifting climate patterns, the beauty of towering mountain ranges, or the intricate dance of ecosystems, geography is the lens through which we can appreciate how impressive our world truly is.

Geography is more than just a subject; it’s a journey – one that creates informed, empathetic, and skilled global citizens.

Study geography at the University of Sheffield International College

For international students looking to join the University of Sheffield, the University of Sheffield International College offers a seamless transition to degree study. The University has a terrific academic reputation, ranked 13th in the UK (Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2024) and 104^th in the world (QS World University Rankings 2024).

By enrolling in our International Foundation Year programme, you’ll gain the necessary academic foundation, hone subject-specific knowledge, and enhance your English language proficiency to thrive at the University of Sheffield.

If you’re aiming for an undergraduate course in geography, consider our International Foundation Year in Business, Social Sciences and Humanities at the International College. This programme blends core academic and English language modules with specific subjects that align with your intended area of study.

Upon successful completion (and with the required grades), you’re set to embark on the first year of your undergraduate journey at the University of Sheffield, top 10 in the UK for geography (The Guardian University Guide 2024), and top 50 in the world (QS World University Rankings by Subject 2023).

For more information, check out the entry requirements, fee structures, and visa guidance related to your chosen programme.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

What is the scope of geography?

The scope of geography covers the examination of Earth’s landscapes, environments, and the relationships they have. It provides a comprehensive understanding of both natural occurrences and human activities, revealing how they interact with and influence the world around us.

How much time does it take to complete a geography degree?

The duration required to complete a course in geography can vary based on the specific programme, student’s academic background and English language ability. A typical BA lasts three years.

The International Foundation Year in Business, Social Sciences and Humanities at the University of Sheffield International College has its own set duration of one year and allows you to then join the first year of your chosen degree.

Is geography easy or hard?

Whether geography is an easy or difficult subject differs from person to person. While some might find certain concepts challenging, others may find them straightforward. However, with a genuine interest in understanding the world and a commitment to the subject, geography can be both approachable and deeply enriching.