6 Common Misconceptions People Have About Africa | The Odyssey Online
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6 Common Misconceptions People Have About Africa

For the record, English is taught in schools, and it is the official language in most African countries.

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6 Common Misconceptions People Have About Africa
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First of all, I have to say if you have never been to Africa, you are missing out.

There is a reason why most people believe it is the birthplace of humanity. Everything is distinct from the people to the culture, to the food even the sun seems to shine differently there. Funny thing is a lot of these amazing things are not being shown out there so people develop this preconceived ideas. Here are 10 misconceptions people have about Africa.

1. Africa is a country

Africa is a continent made up of 54 countries and a good number of us from the motherland have not been to all so telling someone from say Nigeria that you just came back from Africa is just so generic, frankly, you did not land on the entire continent

2. We do not speak/understand the English Language

This one deserves a mention because almost every Africa in the diaspora can relate to this. People think it is alright to compliment us on how good our English is, for the record, it is not it's just rude. English is taught in schools and it is the official language in most African countries.

3. There are no actual infrastructures and modern technologies

someone once asked me if we had roads in my home country (Nigeria), Becky if you are reading this we actually do and so does the 53 other countries in the continent, just google it.

4. Africa needs saving

The media has showcased Africa as a continent in need of a savior. No, we are not all starving, we live in regular houses. Africa does not have a monopoly on poverty just like no continent is rich all around.There is a whole different side of Africa you never get to see and should.

5. Africa is just a hot desert

This is another common misconception, Africa might be home to the Sahara desert but there are other parts of the continent that are home to vegetations. The fact is two third of the continent is covered with vegetation

6. Wild animals just roam the streets

Africa might be home to some of the world's famous animals but you will never see them on the streets. They are kept in zoos or wildlife reserves. So, no, You won't pass a giraffe on the way to the mall.

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This article has not been reviewed by Odyssey HQ and solely reflects the ideas and opinions of the creator.
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