Over the past few decades, there has been a significant increase in immigration from Africa to The United States which has long been a destination for people seeking a new life.
Historically, most immigrants came from Europe or Latin America, but now there has been a significant rise in immigration from Africa over the past few decades.
People from the continent come to America for many reasons, including educational opportunities, professional advancement, and to escape conflict or instability.
African immigrants contribute greatly to the American economy and society. They are one of the most highly educated groups in the United States, with a high percentage holding college degrees and working in professional fields like healthcare, engineering, and technology.
As of recent data from the Migration Policy Institute (MPI), there are approximately 2.8 million immigrants from Africa living in the U.S.
Here is a list of the largest immigrant groups with their numbers.
1. Nigeria
Immigrants in America: 476,008
Nigerians form the largest African immigrant group in the United States. Their numbers have grown rapidly over the past few decades due to their strong desire for higher education and better professional opportunities. They are well-known for their academic achievements.
Nigerian immigrants are highly educated, with a majority holding at least a bachelor’s degree. They are very active in professional fields and have made significant contributions to the U.S. economy, especially in healthcare, IT, and engineering.
The Nigerian diaspora in America is very active and they maintain strong ties to their home country and often send remittances back to Nigeria. They have established communities in major cities like Houston, New York, and Washington, D.C.
2. Ethiopia
Immigrants in America: 278,182
Ethiopians are the second-largest African immigrant group in the United States. A large number of them came to America in the 1970s and 1980s, seeking refuge from political instability, famine, and drought in their home country.
Ethiopian immigrants have made a mark on American society by excelling in various fields and running successful businesses. They are particularly well-known for their restaurants and small businesses, which are a common sight in cities across the country. Many also work in healthcare and services.
The Ethiopian American community is very close-knit. They have created strong support systems through religious institutions, such as Coptic churches and mosques. These community hubs help new arrivals and ensure that Ethiopian culture and traditions are passed on to younger generations.
3. Ghana
Immigrants in America: 241,477
Ghanaians make up the third-largest group of African immigrants in America. Many came to the U.S. in search of better education and economic opportunities. The English language is the official language of Ghana, which makes it easier for many to adapt to life in the United States.
Ghanaian immigrants are known for their high levels of education, with a significant number holding degrees in STEM fields. They make meaningful contributions to key sectors of the American economy, including healthcare and transportation.
The Ghanaian diaspora in the U.S. is very active. They have a strong sense of community and organize various associations. These groups help new immigrants and work to promote Ghanaian culture in America.
4. Egypt
Immigrants in America: 225,665
Egyptians represent a significant portion of the African immigrant population in America. Many of them came to the U.S. for educational and professional advancement.
Egyptian immigrants are very well-represented in professional fields. Many work as doctors, engineers, and academics. They also own a number of small businesses. Their contributions are especially visible in sectors that require a high level of skill.
The Egyptian diaspora has created strong communities in major cities like New York and Los Angeles. They maintain close cultural ties through religious institutions like Coptic Orthodox churches and mosques, which serve as important community places.
5. Kenya
Immigrants in America: 174,734
Kenyans form a growing immigrant group in the United States. Many came seeking higher education and better economic opportunities. The U.S. is a popular destination for Kenyan students and professionals.
Kenyan immigrants contribute to diverse sectors, including healthcare, education, and technology. They are known for their dedication and often pursue advanced degrees, which adds to America’s skilled workforce.
The Kenyan community in America forms tight-knit networks that help new arrivals adapt to life in the U.S. and provide social support. They organize events that celebrate Kenyan culture and heritage.
6. South Africa
Immigrants in America: 133,359
South Africans represent a distinct immigrant group in the United States. Immigration from South Africa has occurred in waves. Many came during and after the apartheid era, seeking political freedom or better economic prospects.
South African immigrants often bring different skills to the U.S. economy. They are found in various professional fields, including finance, healthcare, and technology. Many also have an entrepreneurial spirit and have started new businesses.
The South African diaspora maintains very much connections to their home country. They often participate in social discussions about South Africa. They also celebrate most of their cultural activities through their gatherings, though they tend to be less concentrated in specific enclaves than other immigrant groups.
7. Morocco
Immigrants in America: 109,370
Moroccans constitute a notable immigrant group in America. Many of them have come to the U.S. for educational opportunities and to find work. The majority of Moroccan immigrants in the U.S are Muslims.
Moroccan immigrants contribute to various sectors of the U.S. economy. They are often found in small businesses, especially in ethnic food and retail. They also work in professional fields like engineering and technology.
The also maintains strong cultural and religious ties whereby they often gather in mosques and community centers, celebrating their Moroccan traditions and holidays.
8. Liberia
Immigrants in America: 100,769
Liberians have a long history of immigration to the United States. Many came as refugees due to civil wars and political instability in Liberia. The U.S. has been a key destination for those seeking safety and a new beginning.
Liberian immigrants have established strong communities in cities like Philadelphia and Minneapolis. They work in various sectors, including healthcare, transportation, and services. They are also known for their resilience and strong community spirit.
The Liberian diaspora is actively involved in community work where they support their families back home and work to preserve their culture in America.
9. Somalia
Immigrants in America: 92,401
Somali immigrants represent a significant group in the U.S., with many having arrived as refugees due to prolonged conflict and famine in Somalia. They have built new lives and strong communities across America.
Somali immigrants have contributed to various industries, the often work in manufacturing, services, and transportation companies. They are also known for their strong community networks and entrepreneurial drive, and they have established many small businesses.
The Somali diaspora maintains strong cultural and religious ties in the U.S. The use mosques and community centers as their central points for social gatherings and other activities.
10. Cameroon
Immigrants in America: 90,749
Cameroonians form a growing immigrant group in the United States. Many come seeking educational and professional opportunities. They are often highly skilled and contribute to various sectors.
Cameroonian immigrants are found in professional fields such as healthcare, IT, and education. They are jus like Nigerians known for their academic achievements and their drive to succeed in their chosen careers.
The Cameroonian community in America is active in cultural and social events. They form associations that help newcomers and celebrate their rich cultural heritage and these has h
elped to provide a strong network of support for them.
