AfroNicaraguan

AfroNicaraguans are the descendants of Africans who were brought to Nicaragua primarily as slaves during the colonial era, and later through migration. The largest concentration of AfroNicaraguans resides in the Caribbean coast of Nicaragua, historically known as the Mosquito Coast, and now divided into the North Caribbean Coast Autonomous Region and the South Caribbean Coast Autonomous Region. This region has a distinct cultural and linguistic heritage from the rest of Nicaragua.

The history of AfroNicaraguans is intertwined with the British presence in the Caribbean, as the British often employed enslaved Africans and later encouraged migration from Jamaica and other Caribbean islands to work on plantations and in logging industries. This led to the development of distinct Creole cultures, with English as a common language alongside Spanish, which is the official language of Nicaragua. Many AfroNicaraguans also speak Miskito, an indigenous language of the region, or Rama Cay Creole.

Culturally, AfroNicaraguans have contributed significantly to Nicaraguan music, dance, food, and religious practices. Their traditions often blend African, European, and indigenous influences. Despite their historical presence and contributions, AfroNicaraguans have often faced marginalization and discrimination within Nicaragua. Efforts have been made to recognize and protect their cultural rights and promote their inclusion in national life, particularly through the autonomy statutes granted to the Caribbean coast regions.