Historically, West Africa was largely an agricultural region, and most people lived in villages and relied on farming for their livelihood. This pattern has continued to some extent in modern times, although urbanization has been increasing in recent years.
The geography of West Africa also contributes to the high proportion of people living in rural areas. The region is characterized by a diverse range of landscapes, including rainforests, savannas, and deserts. Many of these areas are not well-suited for large-scale agriculture or industry, which means that people have traditionally lived in small, scattered settlements.
Finally, the economy of West Africa also plays a role in the high proportion of people living in rural areas. The region is still largely dependent on agriculture, and most rural residents are engaged in subsistence farming. This means that they produce food primarily for their own consumption, rather than for sale on the market. As a result, there is less incentive for people to move to urban areas in search of work.