The African Diaspora in Asia has a multifaceted history (ancient and modern movements). According to research, their presence has been through Trade and Migration (Africans have been part of Asian societies for centuries, primarily due to trade routes across the Indian Ocean), Zanj Rebellion (In the 9th century, the Zanj Rebellion in present-day Iraq involved enslaved East Africans who were brought to work in the salt marshes and plantations) and Siddi Community in India (the Siddi (or Habshi) community in India and Pakistan is descended from African slaves, soldiers, and merchants brought to the Indian subcontinent between the 7th and 19th centuries), European Colonialism (The transatlantic and Indian Ocean slave trades brought many Africans to Asian territories controlled by European powers), Labor Migration (In the 19th and early 20th centuries, Africans migrated to Asia as part of labor movements under European colonial rule, particularly to work in plantations and as indentured laborers). In recent decades, there has been a new wave of African migration to Asia, primarily for employment opportunities. Countries like China, India, and the Gulf states have seen an increase in African students, traders, and professionals. The African Diaspora members in Asia like others face Social and Economic Challenges such as discrimination and marginalization including identity and recognition.

The African Diaspora in Asia plays the role of bridging the gap between the two continents, contributing to Africa’s development through economic investments, cultural exchange, educational advancements, and advocacy. The leading Diaspora organization in Asia is the Africa Diaspora Network Japan (ADNJ).