Debunking the 5 Biggest Myths About Hiring Remote Tech Talent in Africa

Let’s face it, it’s 2024, and some stereotypes about Africa are still floating around.

Yes, Africa does have a rich cultural heritage with exotic wildlife and scenery but I think it’s about time we also talked about the humans living in Africa, especially as it relates to global relevance, talents and opportunities. 

THE BEST TALENTS FROM AFRICA

The continent is overflowing with talent from Tech Innovators like Iyin Aboyeji and  AI experts like Kate Kallot, to blockchain gurus like Rume Dominic. As the recession bites harder, a lot of Startups are on a frantic search to find the best talent at an optimal cost for their organization. While most of them look to the Philippines and Latin America region for their shining star, they keep missing out on the vast opportunities that await them in Africa.

A Global Tech Talent Crisis

Africa has a working-age population of over 450 million with tech talent spread across countries like Nigeria, Egypt, Morocco, and Kenya. 

The world is currently experiencing a Global Tech Talent crisis that is projected to worsen by 2030 as the demand to hire tech talent will keep increasing by at least 22% from now till 2030. By 2030, the US is projected to lose 162 Million dollars unless it finds more tech talents to fill the gap. While many organizations have tried basic methods of upskilling and retraining their current talent, this band-aid won’t be enough in the long run.

Common misconceptions that may be preventing you from hiring African tech talent

As Africa’s working age continues to grow in trillions and with Edtech initiatives with platforms like ALX, Teford and Google, recruiting African talent could potentially unlock billions of dollars in revenue for Global organizations. 

However, some widespread and inaccurate propaganda about Africa and its talent has become a huge bottleneck.

Let’s debunk some of the most common myths:

Myth 1: African Talents Lack Skill and Education

Reality: Africa is home to a growing pool of highly skilled professionals. No cap. A report by McKinsey found that “The number of university graduates in Sub-Saharan Africa is projected to grow by more than 500% by 2040, from 6.3 million in 2012 to 34.4 million”. Additionally, the World Bank report a 63% literacy rate in Nigeria alone.

A lot of International organizations try to source talent directly by themselves hence they are bound to hire amiss due to a lack of knowledge of the cultural, professional and political landscape in Africa. However, collaborating with talent partners like this can help you navigate this growing talent pool at a low cost and zero to no risk.

Myth 2: There’s a lack of skilled tech talent in Africa

Reality: Let’s do a quick fact-check here. According to UNESCO, Sub-Saharan Africa is experiencing a surge in ICT enrollment, with a 4.3% annual growth rate. Also, with thousands of tech boot camps and training programs in the Edtech industry, the tech talent pool is empowered to keep growing.

Africa may be lacking many things but talent is not one of them.

Myth 3/4: Africans or Nigerians don’t understand English + Time Zone

Reality: Aside from the fact that Africans are known for being quite adaptable, English is the Official Language of communication in most African countries, especially English-speaking countries. Also, a significant portion of African graduates possess intermediate or higher English proficiency.

So you see again? Wrong.

Myth 4: It’s super expensive to hire African Talent

Reality: This is why a lot of International Organizations are missing out on an opportunity to save cost, hire the best and still maintain a good employer reputation. Compared to other developed countries, Africa has one of the lowest minimum wages in the world. While skilled professionals might earn more, they are still significantly lower than what their counterparts in the US might earn. Also with the rise of remote work, you can rid yourself of relocation costs and visa sponsorship costs. What’s more interesting? African talents are open to competitive salaries that are well above what they could earn locally.

The Future of Hiring Tech Talent in Africa

The potential of Africa’s tech talent pool is undeniably strong and promising. To move forward beyond these myths, partnering with reliable talent acquisition specialists can help you navigate the recruitment process. 

From prospecting to sourcing and onboarding, CareerBuddy has helped over 100,000 Africans secure impactful and well-paying jobs across the world. Tech Startups seeking to reduce hiring costs and risks love us for our speed, precision and affordability. 

Are you ready to unlock the potential of hiring African talents within your organisation? Let’s chat!