Is Africa Modern?
I’ve always been told Africa is all rural with very little development. But lately, I’ve seen photos that say otherwise. I’m honestly confused. Is Africa actually modern in some places, or is that just a few cities?
Absolutely valid question, and one we get a lot.
The idea that Africa is mostly rural and underdeveloped is still common around the world, but it’s far from the full picture. Africa is massive and diverse, and yes, it has modern cities that are full of high-rise buildings, tech hubs, trendy cafés, highways, shopping malls, and global brands.
Take a look at the photo we’ve included. This is Oxford Street in Osu, a bustling commercial area in Accra, Ghana. You can see modern buildings, busy roads, international advertisements, and people going about their day just like in any global city. Accra is just one example. Cities like Nairobi, Lagos, Kigali, and Cape Town also showcase how much Africa is evolving.
Of course, rural areas still exist just like they do in every continent. But to define Africa by its villages alone is like saying the United States is nothing but farms or that Europe has no countryside.
So yes, Africa is modern in many places. And it’s not just a few cities. It’s a growing movement across the continent. Our job here is to share these realities visually and honestly, so keep the questions coming.
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EWK is the voice of Explore With Kojo, a global travel platform that goes beyond postcards and tourist hotspots. We explore the real stories, raw truths, and human moments that mainstream travel media often misses. Whether we’re answering your questions, sharing photo essays, or documenting life-changing journeys, our mission is simple: to show the world with heart, honesty, and curiosity.