Why were Africans were needed as slaves in the west indies?

Africans were needed as slaves in the West Indies due to the high demand for labor in European colonies to work on sugar plantations. The indigenous population was decimated by European diseases and harsh working conditions, making Africans a preferred choice for labor due to their resistance to these diseases and perceived ability to withstand the demanding work. Additionally, the transatlantic slave trade provided a constant supply of forced labor from Africa to the West Indies.