On the global stage, Africans are often seen through a lens that strips them of their dignity and accomplishments. Sadly, these misconceptions have been passed down through generations, perpetuating a distorted image of Africa and its people.
It’s time to set the record straight and debunk the lies that have been spread about Africa.
Here are some of the most common lies told about Africa
1. Africa is a dark continent
This is one of the oldest and most pervasive lies about Africa. The term “dark continent” was coined by Europeans in an attempt to justify their colonial ambitions and to portray Africa as a land of mystery and primitiveness. In reality, Africa is a continent of immense beauty and diversity, with a rich history and culture.
2. Africa is a country, not a continent
This is another misconception that is often perpetuated by the media and in education. Africa is a continent made up of 54 countries, each with its unique culture, history, and traditions.
3. Africa is a desert
While it is true that Africa is home to the Sahara Desert, the largest hot desert in the world, the continent is also home to a wide variety of landscapes, including rainforests, savannas, mountains, and coastlines.
4. All Africans are dark-skinned
This is a gross generalization that ignores the immense diversity of skin tones found across the African continent. Africans come in a wide range of skin colors, from light-skinned to dark-skinned.
5. Africans share only one culture
Africa is a continent of incredible cultural diversity. There are hundreds of different ethnic groups in Africa, each with its own unique language, traditions, and customs.
6. Africans speak African
There is no such thing as an African language. There are over 2,000 languages spoken in Africa,including Swahili, Arabic, French, Hausa, Yoruba, and Oromo.
7. Wild animals roam freely in Africa
While it is true that Africa is home to some of the most iconic wildlife in the world, these animals are not free to roam wherever they please. They are protected in national parks and reserves.
8. All Africans live in houses made of mud and grass
Africans live in a variety of housing types, from traditional mud huts to modern apartments. The type of housing that people live in depends on a variety of factors, such as their location, income, and cultural preferences.
9. African food is not edible
African cuisine is incredibly diverse and flavorful. There is a wide variety of dishes to choose from, reflecting the continent’s rich culinary heritage.
10. African countries are very poor and seek international help
While it is true that some African countries are struggling with poverty, many others are experiencing rapid economic growth and development. Africa is a continent of immense potential, and its future is bright.
11. All Africans speak one language
Of course not!, like African cultures, they also have diverse languages which are unique to a particular ethnic group and not otherwise.
12. There is no electricity in Africa
Africans are long advanced and do not only depend on sunlight for light but also have other sources that are electrically powered.
13. Foreigners who travel to Africa would likely die
Over the years, many foreigners have not only traveled to African countries but also settled in some African countries. Interestingly, they are still alive. So No! Africa is not a battlefield.
14. Africa has no writing system
Colonialism should be blamed for spreading this misconception. Well, the truth is that Africa has the world’s oldest and largest collections of ancient writing which dates back to prehistorical times including Nsibidi, a form of language with over 500 alphabets
15. The cost of living in Africa is very cheap
The cost of living in Africa varies depending on the country and region. In some places, it can be quite expensive, while in others it is more affordable.
16. Africa is a disease-ridden continent
Since the outbreak of ebola which caused deaths in African countries like Sierra Leone, Guinea, and Liberia, Africa has been termed a disease-ridden country with low hygienic measures. However, this remains a lie as Africa isn’t the only continent with such epidemic outbreaks. In fact, some of the most advanced medical research in the world is being done in Africa.
17. African countries are full of corrupt governments
There is corruption in some African countries, but it is not as widespread as many people believe. In fact, many African countries are making great strides in improving governance and transparency.
18. North Africa is not part of Africa
As falsified as this sounds, many people have bought and spread this lie. This is because a large population of North Africa is light-skinned and the influence of Arabic and Arabs surpasses other African countries.
19. Africans have a boring lifestyle and do not party
Here’s another lie that you may have heard. Well, the truth is Africans are the fun makers of the universe and dance in diverse ways. Africans celebrate at any given chance they get.
20. Most families in Africa live and dwell with wild animals
Similar to the belief that wild animals roam freely in African countries. This is also not true. Africans have pets like cats and dogs but do not live and dine with the wilds.
21. Everything Africans do is worth less
Since Africans have been defined as poor, violent, and ignorant people, it would be abnormal to consider them people of worth. However, this is another lie as Africans have a long record of great deeds. They have made many significant contributions to the world in the fields of art, science, literature, and music.
22. Africa is very hot, dry, and sunny
No, it isn’t always hot all over Africa as all African countries also experience different forms of climate change. Some parts of Africa are indeed hot and dry, but others are more temperate or even cold.
23. Africans do not speak English
Similar to the misconception that we speak a language known as African, saying Africans do not speak English is another fat lie. As you would find, the English language is one of the most spoken languages in African countries.
24. Africans are all illiterate
Literacy rates in Africa have been improving steadily in recent years. While there are still challenges to address, many Africans are literate in both their native languages and in English or French.
25. The history of Africa is boring to study as it depicts poverty, slavery, ignorance, and violence
Even though most African countries have been listed as among the poorest countries in the world but then, it cannot be denied that Africa has natural resources scattered around it.
26. Africans are lazy people
If this were true, Africans would have remained slaves for a very long time. But thanks to to their hardworking and resilient stance, they fought through slavery and also found a means of sustaining their livelihood.
27. Egypt is the oldest civilization
While Egypt has a long and rich history, it is not the oldest civilization in the world.Mesopotamia, located in modern-day Iraq, is considered to be the oldest civilization in the world, dating back to around 3500 BC. Egypt’s Old Kingdom arose around 2686 BC.
28. The landmass of Africa is very small
For a continent with 54 countries, it is impossible to define its landmass as small. As you would easily find, Africa is the world’s second-largest continent in terms of size and population and covers over 30 million square miles which is about 6% of the world’s surface area.
29. Africans are black because they are exposed to too much sunlight
Ever heard of the word Melanin? well, that is what’s responsible for Africa’s dark skin tone and not sunlight. People of all races have melanin, but the amount and distribution of melanin varies.
The African descent have more melanin than people of other races,which gives them their darker skin color.
30. Africans were injected with syphilis in the Tuskegee experiment
This is a false and harmful claim. The Tuskegee experiment was a horrific medical study conducted in the United States from 1932 to 1972. The study involved 400 black men, mostly sharecroppers from Alabama,who were infected with syphilis but were not told of their diagnosis or offered treatment.
The purpose of the study was to observe the natural progression of syphilis in an untreated population. The experiment was unethical and caused many of the participants to suffer and die
31. It Doesnt Snow in Africa
There’s nothing so special about snow, however, while Africa is generally associated with warm weather, there are some African countries that experience snowfall. For example, the Atlas Mountains in Morocco and Lesotho, a country entirely enclaved within South Africa, receive regular snowfall during the winter months.
32. Africans are Scammers and Fraudsters
This is a lie that has sadly come to stay. There are scammers and fraudsters in every country in the world, and Africa is no exception. However, to claim that all Africans are scammers is simply not true. The vast majority of Africans are honest and hardworking people.
33. All Africans Know One Another
Africa is a vast and diverse continent with a population of over 1 billion people. It is simply not possible for all Africans to know one another.Africans come from a variety of ethnic groups, cultures, and backgrounds.
34. Egypt isn’t Part of Africa
Egypt is located in the northeastern part of Africa and is considered to be a transcontinental country. This means that its territory straddles two or more continents. However, a major part of Egypt’s landmass is located in Africa, and it is a member of the African Union.
35. There are no talents in Africa
This isn’t even arguable as Africa is blessed with many talents. In fact, someone once said there’s no talent shortage in Africa. Africans have excelled in a variety of fields, including music, art, literature, science, and sports. Some notable African talents include Fela Kuti, Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, Mohammed Diaby, and Didier Drogba.
36. There’s nothing to see in Africa aside from animals
In addition to the common lie that Africa harbors wild animals on the street, it is also said that there is nothing more to see than animals. The truth is that Africa is home to some of the most breathtaking landscapes on the planet
37. African women are always angry
This is another stereotype that has accompanied the black woman and defines her as angry, hostile, overbearing, illogical, and bitter to the world.
African women are just as diverse as women from any other part of the world.They come from a variety of backgrounds and experiences, and they have a wide range of personalities.
38. Africans have no welfare strategy
To claim that all African have bo welfare strategy is simply not true. Many African countries have implemented welfare programs to support their citizens. These programs may include social assistance, food aid, and healthcare subsidies. Even though there are some challenges in implementing and funding welfare programs in Africa, many countries are making progress in this area.
39. Africans belong to a family of apes
Humans and apes are both primates, but we are not descended from apes.
40. Africa is a big animal reserve
Common, not again! we’ve got a lot. Africa is home to a vast array of wildlife, but it is not just an animal reserve. It is home to over 1 billion people, and it is the second-largest continent in the world. The continent also holds great natural beauty including stunning landscapes and diverse ecosystems.
41. Africans are regarded as the black face or an unlucky people
I think racist should be blamed for this claims. Africans are just as diverse as people from any other part of the world. They come from a variety of backgrounds and experiences, and they have a wide range of personalities. To claim that all Africans are unlucky is simply not true.
42. Africans do not have a good source of water and hence, drink chocolate water
This is a ridiculous claim. Africans have access to a variety of water sources, including rivers, lakes, and wells. Chocolate water is not a thing that people drink in Africa.
43. Africans have an unsophisticated way of Spirituality
Africans have a long and rich tradition of spirituality, and their beliefs and practices are just as valid as those of any other religion.
44. Wakanda is the capital city of Africa
Really? Wakanda is a fictional country in the Marvel comic books and films. It is not a real place, and it is not the capital city of Africa.
45. Africans were infected with Syphilis in the Tuskegee experiment
46. Africans are torn by political conflicts
While there are some countries in Africa that are experiencing political conflict, this is not true of the entire continent.
47. Ancient cultures and histories were nonexistent in Africa
Africa has a long and rich history, and there are many ancient cultures and civilizations that have flourished on the continent. Some of the most famous examples include the Ancient Egyptians, the Nubians,and the Swahili people.
48. Africans Below the Sahara Never Sails the Sea
Africans have been sailing the seas for centuries, and there is evidence of African seafaring dating back to at least the 5th century BC. Some of the most famous African sailors include Vasco da Gama, Christopher Columbus, and Ferdinand Magellan.
49. Africans are tribal people who were organized into tribes while Europeans are organized into nations
All societies, including the European ones, have evolved from tribal groups. The concept of the nation-state is a relatively recent invention which isnt just peculiar to the Europeans.
50. Africans eat humans
No, we dont eat humans. There is no evidence to suggest that cannibalism has ever been a widespread practice in Africa.
Read Also: African Proverbs: 100 Best And Their Deep Meanings
51. River Niger was discovered by Mongo Park
The River Niger was known to people living in Africa for centuries before Mongo Park arrived in the 18th century. Park was a Scottish explorer who was the first European to document the course of the Niger River.
52. African hair does not grow
This is another lie that has been sold around the world and sadly most Africans have bought this lie.
Well, African hair can grow just as long as any other type of hair. The misconception that African hair does not grow may stem from the fact that most African people often wear their hair in styles that are short. Also, the texture of the African hair is curly and not straight making which makes its look like its not growing.
53. There’s no Wifi connection in Africa
This is not true. There is internet access in many parts of Africa, and it is becoming increasingly available. In fact, some African countries have some of the fastest internet speeds in the world.
54. Africans sold themselves into slavery
Africans had no hand in their own enslavement. They were enslaved by Europeans through a system of violence, coercion, and deception.
55. Africans are perceived as violent beings and drug addicts
To claim that all Africans are violent or drug addicts is simply not true. We are diverse as people from other part of the world and our lives have been marked by different background and experiences
56. Africans did not contribute to global civilization
Africans have made significant contributions to global civilization in a variety of fields, including science, technology, art,
57. Africans lack a sense of love and cannot feel gratitude
Africans are just as capable of love and gratitude as people from any other part of the world. They have strong family and community ties, and they are known for their hospitality and warmth.
58. Africans are less intelligent
There is no scientific evidence to support the claim that Africans are less intelligent than people from other parts of the world.In fact, there are many African scholars, scientists, and artists who have made significant contributions to their fields.
59. Africa is not for children
Maybe the question should be who is Africa made for?
Like other parts of the world, Africa is a place where children can learn about their heritage, explore different cultures, and experience the natural world.
60. The African skin is ugly
A wise man once said that there’s no standard of beauty. The African skin is beautiful and it comes in a wide range of shades. It is important to remember that beauty is subjective.
61. There are no entrepreneurs in Africa
As you may have guessed, this is a lie. According to our research, Africa has the highest entrepreneurship rate in the world, and over 22% of working-age Africans have set up new businesses. African entrepreneurs are driving economic growth, creating jobs, and solving challenges in their communities. They are leading the way in agriculture, technology, and other sectors.
62. Africans are viewed as completely savage, barbaric, and bloodthirsty
Africans come from a variety of peaceful and civilized cultures. To claim that all Africans are savage, barbaric, or bloodthirsty is simply not true.
63. Ancient Egyptian Mummies had blond or red hair
This is another lie that is told in history to depict Egyptians as white and not black. Meanwhile, DNA analysis has shown that ancient Egyptians had dark hair and brown eyes. The depictions of ancient Egyptians with blond or red hair are likely due to artistic stylization or the use of dyes.
64. All Africans practice polygamy
Polygamy is not a universal practice in Africa. It is only practiced by a small minority of Africans, and it is not considered to be the norm.
65. Africans lack the sense of time
Africans may have a different concept of time than Westerners, but they are not incapable of managing their time or meeting deadlines.
66. Africa only relies on raw material
It is been said that without Africa’s natural resources, the continent would have been long forgotten however, this remains a lie. Over the years a large number of African countries have been giving their best into innovations as well as technology.
67. White people are hated in Africa
Africans are not racist and do not hate other humans. In fact, many Africans have positive relationships with white people .However, it is important to remember that there is a history of colonialism and racism in Africa, and some Africans may have negative feelings towards white people as a result of this history.
68. Ancient Egyptian Mummies had blond or red hair
This is another lie that is told in history to depict Egyptians as white and not black
69. The primitive lifestyle of Africans doesnt allow innovation
Africans have a rich history of innovation and creativity. They have developed unique solutions to challenges in agriculture,transportation, and communication,often using locally available resources.
From the ingenious irrigation systems of the Nubians to the intricate textiles of the Yoruba, African innovation is as diverse and vibrant as the continent itself.
70. Africans have no literary philosophical or historical traditions
Africa boasts a wealth of literary, philosophical, and historical traditions that span millennia. The Griots of West Africa, for instance,are renowned oral historians who preserve and transmit their people’s stories and traditions through generations.
The ancient city of Timbuktu in Mali was once a center of Islamic scholarship, with several library housing countless manuscripts.
African literature, from the epic poems of Sundiata Keita to the poignant novels of Chinua Achebe,has enriched the world with its storytelling and insights.
71. Africans are not normal people
To say that all Africans are abnormal is simply racist and ignorant. Like other parts of the world, African’s are diverse and complex. We also have wide range of cultures, beliefs, and traditions which may be viewed as abnormal.
72. African people are always in need and dependent on the white, industrial society
Africa is a continent of many natural resources and abundant potential. While some African countries face challenges, many have made significant strides in economic development and self-sufficiency as entrepreneurs, innovators, and leaders.
73. Africans are helpless, docile and subordinate
Africans have a long history of resistance and resilience. They have fought against colonialism, apartheid,and other forms of oppression. Africans are not passive victims; they are active agents in their own liberation
74. There are no phones in Africa
So how on earth do we communicate? Africa is home to a rapidly growing mobile phone industry. In fact, Africa has more mobile phone subscribers than the United States and Europe combined. Mobile phones have revolutionized communication and commerce across the continent.
75. Enslaved Africans didn’t have money
Africans were not passive participants in the slave trade. They had their own economic systems and currencies. The slave trade disrupted African economies and robbed individuals of their wealth and possessions.
76. African women are oppressed and powerless
African women are strong,independent, and resourceful. They play vital roles in their families,communities, and societies.
They have led movements for social change and hold positions of leadership in government, business, and the arts.
77. Africa has nothing to offer the world
There no truth in this because for centuries, Africa has given the world a number of things including world music, art, literature, and cuisine that have enriched cultures worldwide. They have made significant contributions to science,technology, and medicine.
78. Africans prefer to sleep on trees like monkeys
This is a racist and offensive stereotype. Africans build houses and sleep in beds just like people from any other part of the world.
79. Africans Hate Each Other
While there have been conflicts and tensions between different groups, just as in any other part of the world, Africans share a common humanity and have a strong sense of community. The vast majority of Africans do not hate each other
80. Africa is a dangerous place
Even though Africa has been depicted by the international media as a place of high crime, this isn’t true for all the countries in Africa. While some areas may have higher levels of crime, many African countries are safe and welcoming to visitors. It is important to do your research and take precautions when traveling to any new destination.
