The Forgotten Genocides of Southern Africa

The Forgotten Genocides of Southern Africa

“Southern Africa’s borders were not drawn — they were carved in blood.” 🌍
Before we talk about modern borders, we must talk about the blood spilled to draw them.

When we think of Southern African history, names like Cecil Rhodes often come up. But behind the statues and “achievements” lies a darker truth of massacres and systemic extermination.

In 1904, under German rule in Namibia, the Herero and Namaqua genocide began.

Men, women, and children were driven into the desert to die. Others were placed in concentration camps like Shark Island.

🔴 80% of the Herero population wiped out
🔴 50% of the Nama population killed

This was not an exception — it was a pattern. From Rhodes’ campaigns in Zimbabwe to German campaigns in East Africa, colonization meant land seizure, forced labor, and mass death.

We honor the ancestors by telling the truth — even when it’s uncomfortable.
If we don’t remember, it will be forgotten again.

💭 Why were we never taught this?