Debate Over and `Black Tax`: Should Young Africans Continue Supporting Extended Families?

The concept of "black tax" has sparked intense debate across social media, especially among young Africans both on the continent and abroad. The term refers to the practice where successful black Africans, whether at home or in the diaspora, are expected to financially support their less well-off relatives. This expectation is deeply rooted in the African philosophy of ubuntu, which emphasizes communal support and the importance of family and community over individual success. Recently, Kenyan influencer Elsa Majimbo, who rose to fame during the COVID-19 pandemic, ignited controversy with her now-deleted TikTok video criticizing this practice. Majimbo, who now lives in the United States, expressed frustration over being expected to financially support extended family members. She pointed out that her father had been supporting these relatives for years, and now they were looking to her for help. "You’ve been asking my dad for money since before I was born. I was born, I was raised, I grew up, now you’re asking me for money - you lazy [expletive]. I’m not feeding your habits," she exclaimed in the video.

Majimbo’s outburst resonated with many, particularly younger Africans who are grappling with the pressures of balancing their financial independence with family obligations. However, her stance also attracted criticism from those who view black tax as an essential part of African culture, rooted in the collective responsibility to uplift one another. For some, the expectation to provide financial support can be overwhelming. A former teacher from Zimbabwe recounted how almost her entire first paycheck went to supporting her nine siblings. Despite the financial strain, she felt a deep sense of obligation as the eldest child to contribute to her family’s welfare. "After I finished buying [school] uniforms, clothes, and groceries, I had $20 left," she recalled, highlighting the tension between personal financial goals and family responsibilities. On the other hand, there are those like Sandra Ajalo, a 28-year-old hairstylist from Uganda, who view black tax as a necessary part of communal life. Raised by a single mother with the help of relatives, Ajalo appreciates the support her family received and is now in a position to give back. "It’s not a burden, it’s a communal helping," she said, acknowledging the strain it can place on individuals but also recognizing the importance of mutual support.

Dr. Chipo Dendere, an assistant professor in Africana Studies at Wellesley College, argues that the necessity of black tax is deeply rooted in colonialism. The colonial system, which concentrated wealth and resources in the hands of a minority, left many black families without generational wealth. As a result, those who achieve financial success often feel compelled to support their extended families, creating a "never-ending cycle" of financial dependence. This cycle is exacerbated by the lack of robust social safety nets in many African countries. Without adequate government-provided healthcare, pensions, or education, the burden falls on more successful family members to cover these expenses. Dr. Dendere points out that "we give because of ubuntu. We are forced to take care of each other." The financial strain of black tax is particularly acute for Africans living abroad, where there is often an expectation that those overseas are more financially secure. Gabe Mutseyekwa, a Zimbabwean living in Germany, eventually decided to stop sending money home to prioritize his own financial future. "There needs to be a balance between bearing this financial responsibility and your personal financial health," he explained, noting that his family initially reacted poorly to his decision but later came to understand his situation. The issue of black tax has even caught the attention of public figures like former Nigerian footballer Mikel John Obi, who spoke about it on the "Rio Ferdinand Presents" podcast. He described the sense of entitlement some relatives have, expecting him to take care of their needs simply because he is successful. While Majimbo’s rant may have been divisive, it has undeniably touched a nerve among the younger generation of Africans. Many are questioning the sustainability of black tax, especially in a world where financial independence is increasingly valued. However, as Dr. Dendere cautions, unless Africa can develop economically and socially, "black tax will be here in perpetuity."