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Author
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Ndaveni, Cleopas
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Title
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Black Tax Is African Men’s First Curse: Unraveling The Burden Of Black Tax, Exploring Its Impact And Implications In Zimbabwe
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Abstract
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This study explores the phenomenon of 'black tax' and its impact on African men in
Zimbabwe. Black tax refers to the financial obligations and burden placed upon successful African individuals to provide support and resources for their extended families. The study aims to unravel the complex nature of black tax, examining its economic, educational, career, psychological, and sociocultural implications. Underpinned by theories such as social exchange theory, intersectionality theory, family systems theory, and cultural capital theory, this research adopts an explanatory and descriptive research design. A mixedmethods approach was employed, utilizing survey questionnaires and semi-structured interviews to gather data from a diverse sample of African men in Zimbabwe, including professionals, entrepreneurs, and skilled workers.The findings reveal the multifaceted burden of black tax on African men. Regression analysis indicates that age, income, and education level significantly influence the black tax burden, with younger, lower-income, and less educated individuals facing disproportionate challenges. Descriptive statistics and t-test results demonstrate the substantial financial, emotional, and psychological impact of black tax, including reduced personal savings, delayed personal and career development, and heightened stress and anxiety. Thematic analysis of the qualitative data illuminates’ key themes related to the burden of black tax, its financial implications, emotional and psychological impact, effects on career and personal development, societal and cultural factors, and the coping mechanisms and support systems employed by African men. Professionals, entrepreneurs, and skilled workers share nuanced experiences, highlighting the complex intersections of identity, socioeconomic status, and family dynamics. The study concludes that black tax poses a significant burden on African men, constraining their personal and professional aspirations, exacerbating wealth inequality, and perpetuating intergenerational cycles of financial dependency. Recommendations include the need for greater societal awareness and policy interventions to address the systemic issues underlying black tax, the provision of financial literacy and counseling programs, and the fostering of support networks and communitybased initiatives to empower African men in navigating this complex cultural obligation.Further research is suggested to explore the experiences of African women, the intergenerational dynamics of black tax, the role of technology and financial innovations in mitigating the burden, and the comparative analysis of black tax across various African contexts. By shedding light on this understudied phenomenon, this study contributes to the broader understanding of the socioeconomic and psychosocial challenges faced by African individuals, paving the way for more inclusive and equitable development strategies.
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Date
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JUNE 2024
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Publisher
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BUSE
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Keywords
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Black Tax, Zimbabwe
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Supervisor
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NIL
Cleopas Ndaveni.pdf