How Africans in Diaspora Struggle to Maintain Their Cultural Identity

In an insightful commentary, Nigerian content creator Afasi sheds light on the challenges faced by Africans residing abroad, particularly concerning the preservation of their cultural heritage, mental well-being, and sense of belonging.

Her observations resonate with the experiences of many within the African diaspora, emphasising the need for concerted efforts to address these issues. According to Afasi, one of the most significant casualties for Africans living in foreign lands is the gradual erosion of their cultural identity. Cultural events and gatherings become increasingly rare, and children born abroad often find themselves identifying more closely with the dominant foreign cultures than their ancestral roots. Afasi says that this disconnect from their heritage can have far-reaching implications on the individual perception and the continuity of cherished traditions and practices.

Furthermore, Afasi highlights the linguistic challenges that Africans confront when relocating to new environments. As children born abroad may not be exposed to their parent’s native tongues, the loss of linguistic heritage can profoundly impact their confidence and self-expression. Language is intrinsically linked to cultural identity, and its preservation is crucial for maintaining connections to one’s roots. Beyond the cultural and linguistic aspects, Afasi also draws attention to the mental health implications of living abroad. The process of adaptation and acculturation can be psychologically taxing, potentially leading to depression, unhappiness, and even physical harm.

She says that in the workplace, African voices and perspectives may be sidelined due to their ethnicity thus eroding self-confidence and a sense of belonging. Echoing Afasi’s sentiments, many Africans in the diaspora have shared their personal experiences and concerns regarding the treatment and acceptance of Africans in Western nations. Accounts of discrimination, exploitation, and marginalization paint a disheartening picture with some questioning the wisdom of seeking greener pastures abroad at the expense of one’s cultural identity.

While the allure of perceived better opportunities in Western countries has become a status symbol for some, others advocate for improving conditions within African nations themselves. They argue that by staying rooted in their home countries, loving and respecting one another, and working towards positive change, Africans can collectively elevate their societies and mitigate the need for mass emigration. Maureen Ngarrine recounts her experience visiting Europe in 2009, stating that Africans were treated poorly, particularly in France. She mentions encountering a South African woman cleaning toilets at the Charles de Gaulle Airport and advised her to return home for better opportunities.

The commenter also describes a discriminatory incident where Africans were singled out for additional passport checks upon arrival, while others were allowed to proceed. Another contributor emphasizes the importance of improving conditions within African nations rather than seeking greener pastures elsewhere. He argues that the perception of better opportunities abroad has become a status symbol, perpetuating the exploitation of Africans as cheap labour in Western countries.