Most crime in Africa is a result of poverty and high unemployment; black market business crimes are widespread. Products in high demand abroad (ivory, coffee beans) are smuggled out of the country and essential commodities (sugar, soap, motor vehicle parts) are brought in to fill shortages that are often artificially created. Easy modern transportation and tourism facilitate this illegal traffic. Individuals who engage in crime as business are often jobless, even though highly educated young people, and those whose jobs no longer offer financial security due to world-wide inflation. Not only do these above activities rob the economy, but combined with urbanization and increase in alcohol and drug abuse, they cause increase in violent crimes, robberies with violence, theft, and embezzlement. Effective control of the crime problem demands a comprehensive policy and research to evaluate its results. Measures have to be taken to ensure social justice, educate the public and encourage participation in the political system. Footnotes are included, as well as history of the penal system in Africa.