economy

January 24, 2026

‘You feel obligated’: African workers on the pain

For workers sending money to support their relatives, payments are both a burden and badge of pride

‘You feel obligated’: African workers on the pain

TL;DR

  • Remittances from the African diaspora, referred to as the 'black tax,' are a significant financial obligation for many, supporting family members with essential needs like rent, healthcare, and school fees.
  • In 2022, remittances to Africa totaled $100bn, surpassing aid and foreign investment, highlighting their critical role in sustaining households and enabling future aspirations.
  • The pressure to send money can limit business growth for entrepreneurs and place a toll on personal finances for those supporting extended families.
  • Individuals often pursue high-earning careers with the goal of building wealth for subsequent generations, hoping they will avoid similar financial hardships.
  • New taxes on remittances, such as a 1% tax in the US, raise concerns about disproportionately affecting lower-income migrants who already face high transaction fees.

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