African segregation

Date and country of first publication

1975
South Africa

Definition

African segregation refers to the systematic separation of different ethnic or racial groups within African societies. This practice has historical roots in colonialism, as European powers divided Africa and imposed segregationist policies to maintain control and exploit resources.

During the colonial period, Africans were often subjected to discriminatory laws and policies that enforced segregation. These policies included separating people based on their race, ethnicity, or tribal background. Africans were given limited opportunities for education, employment, and political participation, while Europeans enjoyed preferential treatment and access to better resources and services.

Examples of African segregation can be seen in various countries across the continent. For instance, South Africa implemented a policy known as apartheid, a system of legal segregation that lasted from 1948 to 1994. Under apartheid, different racial groups were geographically separated, with black Africans being subjected to systematic discrimination, forced removals, and limited access to resources and opportunities.

Other countries like Kenya, Zimbabwe, and Namibia also experienced racial segregation in certain periods of their history, often as a result of colonial rule. These policies not only created divisions and tensions among different ethnic or racial groups but also perpetuated socio-economic inequalities that continue to have lasting effects today.

In recent years, African countries have made efforts to address these historical injustices and promote equality and inclusiveness. Many nations have implemented laws and policies to ensure equal rights, access to resources, and opportunities for all citizens, regardless of their ethnic or racial background. However, the legacies of segregation and its impact on socio-economic disparities still persist in many African societies and require ongoing efforts to eradicate.

Notes

At its current state, this definition has been generated by a Large Language Model (LLM) so far without review by an independent researcher or a member of the curating team of segregation experts that keep the Segregation Wiki online. While we strive for accuracy, we cannot guarantee its reliability, completeness and timeliness. Please use this content with caution and verify information as needed. Also, feel free to improve on the definition as you see fit, including the use of references and other informational resources. We value your input in enhancing the quality and accuracy of the definitions of segregation forms collectively offered in the Segregation Wiki ©.

Further reading

Rich P. (1975) Ideology in a plural society: The case of South African segregation. Social Dynamics, 1(2), 167-180. [1]

Robinson J. (1990) "Progressive port Elizabeth": Liberal politics, local economic development and the territorial basis of racial domination, 1923 1935. Geojournal, 22(3), 293-303. Kluwer Academic Publishers.[2]

Agyei-Mensah S., Owusu G. (2010) Segregated by neighbourhoods? A portrait of ethnic diversity in the neighbourhoods of the Accra Metropolitan Area, Ghana. Population, Space and Place, 16(6), 499-516. [3]

Marsicano E., Lydié N., Bajos N. (2013) 'Migrants from over there' or 'racial minority here'? Sexual networks and prevention practices among sub Saharan African migrants in France. Culture, Health and Sexuality, 15(7), 819-835. [4]