In traditional African tribes, cannibalism was often associated with spirituality and rituals. It was believed that consuming the body of an enemy or an influential person could transfer their courage, strength, or wisdom. At the turn of the 16th and 17th centuries, the first European sailors brought disturbing reports of cannibalism in certain regions of Africa. Although their reports were mostly based on truth, they often embellished the stories to portray Africa as an uncivilized continent and justify its colonization.
Historical photo documenting cannibalism
Cannibalism out of necessity reappeared on the continent during famines caused by sieges or wars. Such cases are documented, for example, from the periods of civil conflicts in Liberia, Sierra Leone, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. However, this was not a cultural tradition but a desperate reaction to extreme conditions.
Today, cannibalism is a criminal offense in every African country and is considered one of the most serious crimes a person can commit. Nevertheless, reports still occasionally appear of individuals or sects that continue to practice cannibalism for ritual purposes connected with black magic.
READ MORE:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cannibalism_in_Africa
