Africa is the world's second-largest and second-most populous continent, located primarily in the Eastern Hemisphere. It is known for its diverse landscapes, which range from vast deserts to lush rainforests and expansive savannas. The continent is home to an array of unique wildlife, including lions, elephants, giraffes, and rhinoceroses. Africa has a rich history, with ancient civilizations such as the Egyptian, Nubian, and Aksumite empires leaving behind impressive architectural and cultural legacies. Today, Africa is a continent of contrasts, with rapidly growing cities, booming economies, and ongoing challenges related to poverty, disease, and political instability.