As Africa becomes more prominent in the global software and digital creation stage, industry stakeholders show increased interest in the continent’s talents.
While nations like Morocco and South Africa are often at the forefront of discussions of African software developers, more countries are joining the conversation as centers for tech talent.
Microsoft recently invested over $100 million in its African development center, and Twitter opened its first African office in Ghana. The company recruited talents from Ghana and Nigeria from tech talent companies like Andela and Moringa School to the co-working center and Co-Creation hub in Nigeria, Rwanda, and Kenya.
International clients are beginning to appreciate the numerous benefits of hiring African software developers. Also, the increased demand for remote job workers has increased the demand for software developers worldwide.
If you are considering recruiting African software developers for upcoming projects, here are some top benefits of hiring your next developers from Africa.
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Who Are Software Developers?
Software developers use their programming skills to design, build, test, and maintain software applications or computer programs.
These applications range from simple mobile apps to complex operating systems that power entire networks.
Software developers work in various settings, including tech companies, startups, and even as freelancers. They also collaborate with other professionals, such as website designers, UI/UX designers, project and product managers, etc., to bring their software to life.
Why You Should Hire African Software Developers
When it comes to African software developers, there are several benefits to hiring one, including:
1. Experienced programmers who deliver results
There are about 700,000 developers in Africa, and depending on the country you are recruiting from, you can be assured of finding reliable programmers for various programming languages.
Developers across this continent learn various programming languages, contributing to a diverse portfolio that ensures you can hire all-in-one talent for your project.
This is handy for languages like Java and JavaScript, which are in high demand.
2. Collaborating with established tech hubs
You do not have to source individual tech talents, especially as a first-timer. There are many tech hubs you can choose to work with directly for all your programming and product needs. Over 400 tech hubs are located in Africa, with Nigeria leading with 85.
Working with these tech hubs ensures you get reliable, experienced talent for various skills.
3. Promoting diversity in tech
Hiring African software developers offers a valuable opportunity to promote diversity within your team and introduce diverse perspectives to your projects.
Africa is a continent of immense cultural richness, encompassing many ethnicities, languages, and traditions. By bringing African developers into your workforce, you can access diverse viewpoints and experiences that significantly enhance creativity and problem-solving. This diversity can lead to more innovative solutions, as individuals from different backgrounds often approach challenges from unique angles, fostering a more inclusive and well-rounded development process.
Hiring African developers introduces diverse perspectives and improves your understanding of different markets and user needs. African developers bring firsthand knowledge of their local markets, which can be invaluable if your company is targeting or expanding into African regions. This knowledge is a significant competitive advantage, enabling you to better connect with and serve a broader range of customers.
4. Reduced operational costs
Hiring African software developers can reduce operational costs for businesses.
This stems from a combination of factors, including lower average salaries compared to developers in North America or Europe developers. The cost of living in many African countries is generally lower, allowing developers to maintain a comfortable standard of living with more competitive salaries.
Additionally, if hiring remotely, companies can avoid expenses associated with office space, equipment, and specific benefits that are often standard in other regions.
5. High English proficiency
High English proficiency is another compelling reason to consider African software developers.
Many African nations have a history of English as an official language. This has resulted in widespread English education and usage in professional settings, particularly within the tech industry.
Consequently, African developers are often accustomed to communicating effectively with international clients and teams, minimizing communication barriers and facilitating smoother collaboration.
This strong command of English translates to well-written code documentation, reports, and other project materials, which is crucial for project maintainability and knowledge transfer.
6. Work flexibility
Work flexibility is a key advantage offered by many African software developers. The continent’s geographical location provides significant time zone overlap with both Europe and the East Coast of North America, allowing for several hours of real-time collaboration during standard business hours.
Also, African developers have embraced the rise of remote work. They are often well-equipped to work independently and manage their time using various communication and project management tools.
7. Hardworking employees
African software developers are often recognized for their strong work ethic and dedication.
Education and hard work are highly valued as pathways to success in many African cultures, fostering a diligent and results-oriented approach among developers.
Africa’s rapidly growing tech scene encourages continuous learning and skill development, ensuring developers stay up-to-date with the latest technologies and best practices.
Due to various economic and infrastructural challenges in some areas, African developers often cultivate exceptional problem-solving skills and resourcefulness, enabling them to find creative solutions even with limited resources.
Conclusion
Hiring African software developers presents a compelling opportunity for businesses seeking high-quality talent, cost-effective solutions, and diverse perspectives.
The advantages are clear, from strong English proficiency and time zone compatibility to a proven work ethic and a rapidly expanding tech ecosystem.
By embracing Africa’s talent pool, companies gain a competitive edge and contribute to the growth and development of a dynamic and promising tech landscape. This is a win-win scenario that forward-thinking businesses should seriously consider.
At Charisol, you can be assured of getting the most accomplished developers and brand managers in Africa. We can help you build effective digital tools, from websites to mobile apps, to achieve your business goals.
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