Early exploration of africa by europeans was hindered by the

Generally speaking, early exploration of Africa by europeans was hindered by the lack of navigable routes in Africa, due to the fact that much of Africa at this time was barren. 

 the bakery is analyzing its Threats

In business, threats refer to anything that will become a hindrance for a company to achieve its goals.
Several things that considered a threat on most businesses are Competitors, Poor economic conditions, unstable Governmental system, Radical population, etc.