African heritage refers to the collective cultural, historical, and social legacies of the African continent, encompassing traditions, languages, art, spirituality, and lived experiences passed down through generations.

It reflects the diversity of Africa’s 54 nations, thousands of ethnic groups, and over 2,000 languages, while also acknowledging shared values of community, resilience, and creativity.

African heritage includes tangible elements such as monuments, artefacts, and landscapes, as well as intangible aspects like oral histories, music, dance, and belief systems.

It is a source of identity and pride, shaping both continental and global narratives, and sustaining diasporic connections worldwide.

Promotion of African heritage is needed in the UK because it enriches national culture, strengthens identity for African-descended communities, and ensures Britain’s history is told in full, reflecting centuries of African presence and contribution. 

It also fosters inclusion, mutual understanding, and economic opportunities through heritage-led projects.

African heritage is essential in the UK as it ensures that African contributions are fully recognised.

For African communities, it fosters pride, belonging, resilience, and intergenerational learning, while creating economic opportunities through heritage-led enterprises.

For wider UK society, it broadens historical understanding, challenges stereotypes, and enhances cultural life through festivals, art, and storytelling.

Heritage initiatives also drive innovation in creative industries, support regeneration, and promote social cohesion.

By embedding African heritage into mainstream narratives, the UK builds inclusivity, celebrates diversity, and unlocks sustainable opportunities for all communities.