This study investigates the relationship between poverty, inequality, and violent crime across African countries and diaspora communities. It seeks to understand how socio-economic deprivation, perceived inequality, youth marginalization, urbanization, and weak governance collectively drive violent crime, and to identify evidence-based strategies for crime prevention and sustainable development. Violent crime remains a persistent challenge across Africa, disproportionately affecting impoverished and marginalized communities. Despite economic growth in several countries, high levels of poverty and inequality, coupled with weak governance and limited social opportunities, continue to fuel criminal behavior. Existing research is often country-specific, outdated, or limited in scope, leaving a critical knowledge gap regarding continent-wide patterns of violent crime and the role of diaspora engagement in prevention strategies. This study employs a systematic, multi-level research approach, integrating both qualitative and quantitative methods. It involves. A literature review synthesizing recent (2020–2025) and foundational studies to identify key drivers of violent crime. Comparative analysis across African countries to examine regional variations in crime patterns. Theoretical integration of Strain Theory, Relative Deprivation Theory, and Routine Activity Theory to provide a robust analytical framework. Inclusion of diaspora perspectives to assess cross-border socio-economic influences on crime trends. The study provides a holistic understanding of violent crime in Africa, linking structural socio-economic factors, environmental conditions, and governance dynamics with criminal behavior. It advances knowledge by integrating recent empirical data with classical theoretical frameworks. Highlighting the role of youth, urbanization, and diaspora engagement in crime prevention. Offering actionable recommendations for governments, law enforcement, communities, and international stakeholders. Poverty and inequality are fundamental drivers of violent crime, particularly in urban informal settlements. Youth unemployment and marginalization significantly increase vulnerability to criminal behavior. Urbanization and environmental factors create opportunities for crime in poorly planned or underserved areas. Weak governance and institutional capacity exacerbate crime rates and undermine social stability. Integrated, multi-sectoral approaches, including diaspora engagement, community-led initiatives, and evidence-based policy interventions, are most effective in reducing violent crime. Violent crime in Africa is multi-dimensional, arising from the interplay of socio-economic deprivation, inequality, youth marginalization, urban vulnerabilities, and weak governance. Addressing these challenges requires holistic, inclusive, and evidencebased strategies that involve governments, communities, law enforcement, civil society, and the diaspora. This study provides a framework for sustainable crime prevention, social stability, and socio-economic development across Africa and diaspora communities.