Africa is arguably the most changing continent on earth. Forty three countries in tropical Africa, except for Ethiopia and Liberia, have gained independence in the last 30 years. These young, newly independent states incorporate a diverse environmental, social and political climate. Some 800 different ethnic and language groups combine to make a population of over 500 million people and Africa┐s population growth rate is still rising. Africa┐s natural landscape and wildlife contrasts with images of the poverty, war and famine of some of its people. The continent now faces new challenges of modern development, population growth and environmental issues.