THE COLOUR OF A WITCH IN AFRICA

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Photo credit: freepik.com

In Africa, particularly in Nigeria, the color black is often negatively associated with witchcraft. Despite black symbolizing power, authority, and elegance, many Nigerians—especially in rural areas—frequently label elderly, dark-skinned women as witches. This perception is unjust and harmful.

It is rare to find a fair-skinned woman suspected or accused of witchcraft in Africa. This is largely because fair complexions are often associated with innocence and harmlessness. I recall an incident years ago when a spirit was consulted to identify the witch or wizard responsible for the death of a two-month-old baby boy. To the surprise of many, a fair-skinned woman was accused of being behind the tragedy.

In many African cultures, colors carry profound symbolic meanings connected to nature, spirituality, and societal values. The symbolism of black and white is far more complex than a simple good-versus-evil contrast often seen in Western cultures.

Black frequently represents the earth, ancestors, and the mysteries of the unknown. It symbolizes maturity, wisdom, and the cyclical nature of life and death. In some contexts, black is linked to mystery and power. It is also the color of the skin of most Africans, embodying their identity and heritage.

Therefore, it is crucial to look beyond outward appearances when judging a person’s character. Many innocent individuals, especially women with dark complexions, have suffered unjustly and even lost their lives due to misconceptions and hasty judgments based solely on their skin colour.

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