While America remains the world's largest provider of remote jobs, it is far from alone in contributing to their development. Despite the "back to the office" movement, remote jobs remain popular with talent, and demand for them continues to grow. This is true in the richest countries. But it's also true elsewhere. Africa is a case in point.
According to a report by Nexford University, 73% of working Africans want to work remotely. Already, 42% work from home at least one day a week. At the same time, the continent is currently experiencing significant growth in the number of telecommuting jobs.
In 2022, a report by Deel, a company specializing in global HR and payroll management, revealed that the number of tech and remote companies recruiting in Africa had grown by 800% year-on-year. This is more than the rate of growth seen in the North American region (+208%) and Asia-Pacific (+227%), for professions ranging from software engineer to account executive.
An increasingly skilled workforce
There are many factors behind the boom in remote work in Africa. As in the rest of the world, young African talent is also looking for greater flexibility and a better work-life balance. Furthermore, as remote jobs erase borders, they enable professionals on the continent to work for international companies and thus receive better salaries.
On the business side, Africa is increasingly seen as a response to the talent shortage that is particularly acute in the IT sector, the main source of remote jobs. As noted in a study by the UNESCO Institute for Statistics, the number of African students enrolled in higher education has doubled over the last fifteen years. And by 2063, 70% of secondary school graduates are expected to continue their studies at university.
What's more, from a purely accounting point of view, large companies have a salary advantage in recruiting from Africa. Average salaries are still lower than in the USA and Western Europe (although, as we have seen, African talent can expect to be better paid than if they worked for a local company).
Africa's most popular remote jobs
The most popular remote jobs in Africa include :
- Software Developer
- Project manager
- Sales
- Digital Marketing
- Virtual assistance
- Accounting
- Online Tutoring
As for the most advanced work-from-home countries in Africa, statistics are still patchy. It is therefore impossible to be exhaustive. However, the list of African countries that have shown a real interest in remote jobs includes :
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South Africa
The country benefits from a diversified economy and a relatively well-developed infrastructure. Sectors such as technology and financial services account for the bulk of remote job vacancies.
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Nigeria
This is one of the country's great advantages. Nigeria has a young and dynamic population. The number of qualified professionals is steadily increasing which is good for professionals in search of remote jobs. The fields concerned range from software development to online services.
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Kenya
The capital, Nairobi, has become a technology hub. As a result, it is home to numerous start-ups and technology companies, whose development is closely monitored by the major corporations. The local ecosystem is naturally remote jobs friendly.
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Morocco
The country's tourism industry is in top form, and its booming service sector offers many opportunities for remote working, particularly in the field of communications.
In this country, the government has given high priority to digital transformation. It is behind several initiatives to encourage the use of electronic means of communication and information technologies in various sectors. This will enable them to open up more and more to remote working.
Today, everything seems to indicate that Africa will play an ever-growing role in the global online jobs ecosystem. It offers considerable potential for meeting the international demand for talent.
FAQ
Q1 What are remote jobs, and how do they differ from traditional employment in Africa?
Remote jobs refer to positions where employees can work from any location, usually from their homes or co-working spaces, using digital technology to stay connected. In Africa, remote jobs provide an alternative to traditional office-based employment, allowing individuals to contribute to global projects without the need for physical presence in a specific office.
Q2 What types of remote jobs are available in Africa, and in which industries are they most common?
Remote jobs in Africa cover a wide range of industries, including information technology, digital marketing, customer service, writing, and more. Tech-related roles such as software development and digital marketing are particularly prevalent, but opportunities are expanding across various sectors as businesses embrace remote work.
Q3 How can individuals in Africa find legitimate remote job opportunities?
Finding legitimate remote job opportunities in Africa involves utilizing online job platforms, networking, and staying informed about industry trends. Remote job websites like Jobgether, freelancing platforms, and professional social networks can be valuable resources. It's essential to verify the credibility of the employers or platforms and be cautious of potential scams.
Q4 What challenges might individuals face when working remotely in Africa, and how can they overcome them?
Remote workers in Africa may encounter challenges such as unreliable internet connectivity, time zone differences, and the need for a suitable work environment. Overcoming these challenges involves investing in reliable internet services, establishing a dedicated workspace, and effectively managing time to align with the demands of remote work.