African presence in Switzerland

According to current statistics, there are an estimated  120,000 Africans and/or people of African descent  (black Africa and the Maghreb) living on Swiss soil.
The African community is scattered across Switzerland with a strong presence, which is not surprising, in large cities such as Geneva, Lausanne, Zurich, Bern, Basel. Contrary to what one might think or imagine, the vast majority of African nationals in Switzerland are in a perfectly legal situation and live in perfect harmony with the Swiss population. African nationals stand out in several areas, ranging from the arts and culture, to economics, sports, journalism, academia, and even politics, among others. In addition to these areas, Africans are also widely represented in international organizations, diplomatic missions, consulates and embassies based in Geneva and Bern. Concerning African associations in Switzerland, we hardly have any official figures on them, given the short life span of most of them. Indeed, many generally disappear because of their financial fragility, among other reasons. However, we can assume that there are between 200 and 300 in Switzerland.

To combat communitarianism and identity withdrawal, which unfortunately characterize certain African associations, CIPINA aims to break down barriers between them and allow them to meet the Swiss and other foreign communities in Switzerland. With this in mind, broad collaboration with the country’s municipal, cantonal and confederal authorities is envisaged and CIPINA will implement several integration projects that will allow Africans to show all the facets of their rich cultures.

Percentage by canton of the African population residing in Switzerland

Statistics of the African population residing in Switzerland by nationality

MAGHREB

Total Maghreb: 29,205

BLACK AFRICA

Total Sub-Saharan Africa: 89,815

Total Sub-Saharan Africa + Maghreb: 119,020

Source: OFS, African associations in Switzerland, status as of 31.12. 2022