22. What factor explains why the Democratic Republic of Congo has been economically unsuccessful?

a. corrupt national leadership and inefficient use of resources
b. lack of natural resources
c. a lack of rivers that could be used for transportation
d. poor soil and a dry climate
Not sure about this one..I think it might be A

18. What is a major reason for the failure of West Africa's coastal countries to create successful economies?
a. the region has been unable to borrow money for development
b. the cost of the region's imports exceeds the value of its exports
c. most European nations avoid trading with West Africa
d. the region exports only manufactured goods, not raw materials
B?

Thanks
-MC

Yes. Both are correct!

For question 22, you're correct. The factor that explains why the Democratic Republic of Congo has been economically unsuccessful is option A - corrupt national leadership and inefficient use of resources. This can be determined by understanding the country's history of political instability, corruption, mismanagement of resources, and lack of infrastructure development.

To arrive at this answer, you can analyze several factors. Firstly, look at the country's history of corrupt leadership, which has led to embezzlement of public funds, poor governance, and lack of accountability. This mismanagement of resources greatly hampers economic development.

Additionally, inefficient use of resources and lack of investment contribute to the economic challenges faced by the Democratic Republic of Congo. The country possesses abundant natural resources such as minerals, but due to mismanagement and limited infrastructure, these resources have not been adequately exploited or transformed into sustained economic growth.

Regarding question 18, the major reason for the failure of West Africa's coastal countries to create successful economies is indeed option B - the cost of the region's imports exceeds the value of its exports. This imbalance in trade leads to trade deficits and puts a strain on the economy.

To arrive at this answer, you can consider the economic structure of the region and its dependence on imports for essential goods and services. West Africa's coastal countries often face challenges in developing local manufacturing industries, resulting in a heavy reliance on imported goods. As a result, the cost of imports outweighing the value of exports leads to a trade imbalance and economic difficulties.