A new Afrobarometer Pan-Africa profile report says majority of Africans have tolerance for ethnic, religious, political and national differences but oppose more immigrants seeking economic opportunities in their countries.

The Afrobarometer report was published on September 3. 

It stated that its findings were “based on interviews with 50,961 interviews across 38 African countries in 2024/2025.”

“While large majorities accept neighbours of different ethnicities, religions, political affiliations, and nationalities, immigration marks a boundary of inclusion. Fewer than half of Africans believe immigrants benefit their economy, and majorities favour admitting fewer foreign job seekers and refugees, with South Africa expressing some of the continent’s most restrictive views,” the report stated. 

The 50,961 respondents interviewed across 38 African countries in 2024/2025 were asked: “Do you think the country should allow more or fewer job seekers from other countries to come to live and work in this country?”

Further breakdown shows that out of the 50,961 respondents, 24,970 representing 49 per cent of the sample population favoured fewer jobs seekers from other countries to come live and work in their countries. 

While 7,644 respondents, who formed 15 per cent of the sample population, opposed job seekers from other countries in their countries, same 15 per cent welcome more job seekers from other countries in their countries. 

9,682 respondents representing 19 per cent of 50,961 population sample voted “about the same.”

The report added,  “Most Africans value their national identity at least as highly as their ethnicity; many value them both equally. But perceptions of unfair treatment based on ethnicity are widespread.

“The findings portray a continent characterised by strong family and community ties and broad social tolerance, but weaker trust across social boundaries, restrictive attitudes toward immigration, and concerns about institutional fairness.”