African

People from Africa have been connected to Manchester for centuries through trade, education and industry but larger-scale settlement began in the decades after the Second World War. Migration increased from the 1950's onwards with people arriving from countries such as Nigeria, Ghana, Somalia, Zimbabwe, Kenya and South Africa. Some came to fill labour shortages in sectors including healthcare, transport, manufacturing and education, while others arrived as students, professionals, refugees or people seeking new opportunities.

Many African migrants settled in areas across Manchester and Greater Manchester, where they established community organisations, churches, mosques, businesses and cultural associations. Although some experienced discrimination and challenges adapting to life in Britain, strong community networks helped support new arrivals and preserve cultural traditions.

African communities have made significant contributions to Manchester's development in healthcare, education, entrepreneurship, public service, sport and the arts. Today people of African heritage form an important part of Manchester's diverse population, enriching the city's cultural life through festivals, music, food, faith communities and civic leadership. Their presence continues to shape Manchester as a vibrant multicultural city.