Do Africans Support Afrocentrism?

The concept of Afrocentrism, often linked with black supremacy, has sparked intense debates within and outside Africa. Some argue that a few Africans support this ideology due to their perceived superiority. However, the reality is more nuanced. This article aims to clarify misconceptions, highlight the experiences of sub-Saharan Africans, and promote a harmonious co-existence among all humans.

Origins and Perceptions of Afrocentrism

Afrocentrism was developed by African scholars and intellectuals as a response to the dominant Eurocentric narratives in historical research. While some Africans do embrace Afrocentric ideas, these beliefs are often confined to a small, fringe group driven by anti-European sentiments and cultural arrogance. In the United States, Afrocentrism gained traction among black Americans who allowed liberal ideologies to shape their thinking and held resentment towards white individuals.

Framing Afrocentrism Correctly

It is essential to approach Afrocentrism with a balanced perspective. Sub-Saharan Africans predominantly view themselves as equals and recognize no inherent superiority among races. In fact, some Africans believe that white Europeans are superior and thus endeavored to integrate into European societies. In Europe, a common sight is the pursuit of European women by various Africans, reflecting a desire for integration rather than supremacy.

An African Perspective

As a sub-Saharan African, I, too, reject any ethnocentric ideology that promotes pseudoscientific claims of racial superiority. In sub-Saharan Africa, where a majority of the population is not fully aware of Afrocentrism, North Africans are more familiar with it. North Africans often express frustration when claims suggest that the indigenous population was black, while they are portrayed as Arab invaders. It is important to note that Sudan and Mauritania are predominantly black, but this does not mean they are genetically Arab; they are simply Arabized populations. Africans generally oppose any ideology with extremist elements.

UNESCO and African Scholarship

UNESCO recognized the importance of Africa being the subject rather than the object in its historical narrative. To address this, UNESCO convened over 350 African scholars, archaeologists, historians, and writers to craft the Africa General History (AGH), a ten-volume document that authentically documents African history from the perspective of the people who lived it. This initiative underscores the mandate that Africans be viewed as subjects, not objects.

Intersection with Realities and Beliefs

The perception that Africans believe in black supremacy is a myth. The continent is composed of diverse cultures and ethnicities, making it challenging to identify a single African culture with universal goals. It is easy to manipulate people, particularly using religious texts to create false connections. However, I have yet to witness an African claiming to be superior to other races. Africans tend to reject extreme ideologies, promoting harmony and co-existence with others.