Many conflicts result from tribal differences. Tribal cooperation is needed for this region to make progress. River transportation is hampered by seasonal low water levels and numerous waterfalls and rapids. The flat plateau areas are very old and stable. Tropical rainforests, savanna grasslands, and deserts are the principal areas.
Soils are generally poor.
Aside from oil and natural gas, this region contains very significant mineral deposits. In some cases, mineral exploitation is limited by the lack of development. All are among the poorest countries in the world. Although urban growth is rapid, most of the people still live in rural areas. Population growth is very fast.