Wherever they go, Africans bring with them resilience, talent, and ambition. Yet, their experiences abroad are not without challenges. Across Western countries and even in Asia and Southeast Asia, many Africans continue to face discrimination. The forms of this prejudice differ depending on the context, but the impact is often the same: exclusion, stereotyping, and barriers to opportunity. Still, there is hope—through associations such as the Association of Cameroonians in the Philippines (ACP Inc.), cultural exchange, and advocacy, Africans abroad can help dismantle the walls of misunderstanding and bias that often surround them.

1. Discrimination in Western Countries

In Europe and North America, discrimination against Africans and people of African descent has been well-documented. Studies reveal inequalities in employment, policing, and justice systems. For example, the European Union Agency for Fundamental Rights (2019) reported that nearly 40% of Africans in Europe experienced discrimination in the past five years. In the U.S., research shows that job seekers with African-sounding names receive about 50% fewer callbacks than those with white-sounding names. Policing data reveals further inequities: young Black and Arab men in France are up to 20 times more likely to be stopped by police, while African Americans face incarceration rates five times higher than white Americans.

Success Story:

Despite these challenges, individuals like Tidjane Thiam, an Ivorian, rose to become CEO of Credit Suisse, one of the largest banks in Europe. His career highlights how Africans can thrive in Western systems despite systemic barriers, serving as an inspiration for others abroad.

2. Discrimination in Asia and Southeast Asia

In Asia, the situation looks different, though discrimination is still a reality. In China, Africans in cities like Guangzhou faced widespread evictions and restrictions during the COVID-19 pandemic, raising international concern. In India, African students, especially from Nigeria, have reported targeted attacks and harassment. In Southeast Asia—countries like the Philippines, Malaysia, and Thailand—Africans are often few in number, and discrimination tends to come in the form of social prejudice and stereotyping rather than structured systemic barriers. Common stereotypes, such as linking Africans to scams or drugs, create suspicion, while others exoticize African identity. In many cases, the lack of day-to-day exposure to Africans fuels ignorance, which manifests as mistrust or exclusion.

Success Story:

In the Philippines, several African students and entrepreneurs are making waves. For instance, African chefs and cultural promoters have introduced African cuisine to Manila, creating spaces where locals experience African culture firsthand. These initiatives help break stereotypes and promote understanding through food and art.

3. Causes of Discrimination

The roots of anti-African prejudice are both historical and contemporary. Colonialism created racial hierarchies that continue to shape perceptions of Blackness in global societies, particularly in Europe. Global media has also played a role by disproportionately associating Africa with poverty, disease, or conflict, rarely highlighting its innovation or cultural wealth. In Asia, where exposure to Africans is limited, unfamiliarity often leads to stereotypes and prejudices. Meanwhile, in the West, Africans are sometimes cast as economic competitors or outsiders “taking jobs,” reinforcing xenophobic rhetoric.

Success Story:

To counter these misrepresentations, Africans in the diaspora are reclaiming their narrative. Nigerian-American author Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, through her bestselling books and TED talks, has challenged single stories about Africa. Her global influence shows how storytelling can directly combat prejudice and ignorance.

4. Building Solutions: What Africans Can Do

While the responsibility for ending discrimination must be shared with governments and societies, Africans abroad can play an active role in shaping solutions. Organizing into associations provides visibility, solidarity, and platforms for cultural promotion. For example, the Association of Cameroonians in the Philippines (ACP Inc.) has become a hub for uniting the Cameroonian diaspora, showcasing culture, and strengthening ties with local communities. Events such as festivals, business expos, or academic forums allow Africans to highlight their contributions and foster respect. Investing in education and skill development ensures Africans can thrive in competitive economies, while storytelling—through films, social media, and journalism—gives Africans control of their own narratives. Partnerships with local advocacy groups and human rights organizations also help amplify African voices. Finally, learning local languages and embracing cultural exchange can break down barriers and build bridges of understanding.

Success Story:

In Malaysia, African student associations have organized cultural nights and entrepreneurship forums that not only celebrate African identity but also attract local participation. These activities show how cultural exchange can be a tool for reducing prejudice while building opportunities.

5. A Path Forward

Yes, discrimination against Africans abroad is real, but it is not permanent. While the West grapples with systemic racism rooted in centuries of history, Asia faces challenges of limited exposure and stereotyping. The solutions lie in visibility, unity, and persistence. By building strong communities—like the Association of Cameroonians in the Philippines (ACP Inc.)—excelling in different fields, sharing authentic stories, and engaging openly with host societies, Africans abroad can challenge prejudice and transform perceptions. It is a long journey, but every cultural exchange, every success story, and every act of solidarity brings us one step closer to a world where Africans are valued not as outsiders, but as partners in building diverse and inclusive societies.

Success Story:

Across continents, Africans have proven their resilience. From athletes dominating global sports to entrepreneurs like Strive Masiyiwa (Zimbabwean billionaire and philanthropist), Africans show that contribution and excellence are possible everywhere. These examples remind us that prejudice can be overcome, and success stories can inspire entire communities abroad.