Is Black Tax a Burden or a Blessing for Kenyans in Diaspora?

When you live in the West, there is a moment when you are suddenly reminded that this is not your home.

The experience of living in the West often presents reminders of cultural displacement for individuals from African nations. These moments of realization extend beyond the superficial aspects of being a minority in terms of ethnicity or language. While the financial disparity between Western and African economies is anticipated, it is the unforeseen cultural differences that truly resonate. One such moment of cultural dissonance arose during Kenyan author Ciku Mwaniki’s leisurely excursion to London’s Bond Street, a renowned shopping district frequented by the affluent. It was here, amidst the opulent boutiques and luxury goods, that the concept of “black tax” emerged as a point of contention.

Ciku encountered a desirable item within her financial reach, albeit at the cost of half her weekly earnings. Despite her willingness to forgo certain luxuries, she ultimately refrained from the purchase, recalling her obligation to provide financial support to her mother. This decision prompted an unexpected reaction from her white friend who suggested that such familial financial responsibilities, colloquially termed “black tax,” are impeding Africa’s economic progress relative to Western nations. The friend’s assertion that Ciku’s culture is unfair deeply offended her, particularly as she was unfamiliar with the concept at the time.

Intrigued by the term, Ciku later researched its meaning, discovering that “black tax” refers to the financial burden often shouldered by successful Black individuals in supporting their less financially secure family members. The notion of black tax is deeply rooted in the African philosophy of Ubuntu, which emphasizes communal interdependence. However, this practice can place significant financial strain on black professionals, particularly those who are first-generation college graduates or high earners. The obligation to support extended family members can impede personal wealth accumulation and financial growth, creating a disparity between black individuals and their peers from more individualistic cultures.

In less affluent communities, it is common for families to pool resources to support talented individuals in pursuing opportunities for success. This collective effort often begets a sense of reciprocal obligation in those who achieve financial stability, compelling them to assist struggling family members. While this practice can foster gratitude and strengthen familial bonds, it can also lead to financial strain and difficulty in establishing personal boundaries. While the concept can be viewed as a burden by some, particularly from a Western capitalist perspective, many Africans consider it an integral aspect of their cultural identity and social fabric.

Ciku asserts that, in her view, the concept of “black tax” is misunderstood. She emphasizes that supporting family members financially is not a burden, but rather a privilege. For Ciku, this practice represents an opportunity to reciprocate the support she received and to contribute to her family’s well-being. She acknowledges that while she cannot speak for all Black individuals, her personal perspective frames this financial responsibility as an honour.