Discover more about the African community in Scotland
The first Africans to live in Scotland were soldiers from the Roman army. Once the Romans left Scotland, the Africans left too. In 1505 some African people lived in Edinburgh as staff of King James IV and in the 18th century, bigger numbers started to arrive from the Americas and the Caribbean. Africans have continued to arrive in Scotland to look for work or to study at university.
There are approximately 5,000 people living in Scotland who are of African origin.
Most of the African community were born in countries in South and Eastern Africa, Nigeria, Zimbabwe, Kenya and Central and Western Africa. 17% were born in Scotland.
Most African people living in Scotland are Christians, but many are also Muslim or have no religion.
Here’s some facts about the African community in Scotland:
Most Africans live in large urban areas like big towns and cities. The African community has the highest percentage of full-time students in Scotland. The main industries that African people work in are:
- health & social work
- wholesale & retail
- hotels & restaurants
- education.
Out of all the minority ethnic groups, Africans are the most likely to have a degree.
Data Source:
Source for the above mentioned statistical data and information is the Census 2001 and the Scottish Government Campaign “One Scotland”. The information will be updated with the publication of the “Census 2011” in autumn 2012.
Census 2011
The National Records of Scotland (NRS) – previously General Register office for Scotland (GROS) - is taking a census of Scotland’s population every ten years. The publication of the statistical data and information of the “Census 2011” is planned for autumn 2012.
Campaign "One Scotland"
In 2002 the Scottish Government organised a Campaign called “One Scotland”. The campaign was committed to create a modern Scotland where people from all over the world can bring their talents and skills, make a contribution and help shape Scotland’s future. Find more information on the Culture and Beliefs Section.
Social