What did the Europeans gain by exploring Africa?

With the discovery of the sea route to India, the Europeans became increasingly familiar with the continent of Africa; explorers particularly took note of its extensive and diverse natural reserves. Gold and diamonds were found in plenty in the south of Africa-the British and the Boers fought here for good bargain. Even the Churches began to take interest in this continent and sent their missionaries deep into interior of Africa. From all over Africa, especially Timbuktu, numerous tribal people were caught and forcibly sent over to America as slaves.