The variation of skin color in Africa is diverse and complex, with different regions, tribes, and countries exhibiting a range of skin tones. It is important to note that skin color is influenced by a combination of genetic factors, environmental factors, and historical and cultural influences. While it is not accurate to categorize an entire region, tribe, or country as having the darkest or lightest skin color, there are certain populations within Africa that are known for having darker or lighter skin tones.

1. Populations with Darker Skin Color:

   • Nilo-Saharan Ancestry: Populations of Nilo-Saharan ancestry, such as those found in various countries in East Africa, including Sudan, South Sudan, Ethiopia, Kenya, and Uganda, tend to have darker skin tones [1].
   • Sub-Saharan Populations: Across sub-Saharan Africa, populations generally have darker skin tones, with variations within different ethnic groups and regions [1].
   • San People: The San people, also known as Bushmen, who primarily inhabit southern Africa, including Botswana, Namibia, and South Africa, are known to have lighter skin tones compared to other populations in sub-Saharan Africa [1].

2. Populations with Lighter Skin Color:

   • North African Populations: Populations in North Africa, including countries like Morocco, Algeria, Tunisia, Libya, and Egypt, often have lighter skin tones due to historical interactions with Arab, Mediterranean, and European populations [1].
   • Afro-Arab Populations: In certain regions of East Africa, such as Somalia, Djibouti, and parts of Ethiopia, there are populations with Afro-Arab ancestry who may have lighter skin tones due to historical intermixing with Arab populations [1].

It is important to remember that these categorizations are generalizations and that there is significant diversity within and between African populations in terms of skin color. Skin color is a complex trait influenced by a variety of factors, and it is not accurate or fair to make broad generalizations about the skin color of an entire region, tribe, or country.

Learn more:

1. The varying skin colors of Africa: light, dark, and all in between
2. Skin Color in Africa | CSDT
3. South Sudan, a nation embracing its identity through its skin | Features | Al Jazeera