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Thinking of going back to Africa? Africa is sweet and the kingly pleasure of settling down on the continent promises a whole lot. In Africa, no one is an immigrant, all are welcome. It will ultimately seem necessary that expatriates and African natives alike, willing to relocate on a permanent basis must be adequately prepared in order to have an enjoyable return.
What is your motivation? The driving force that is propelling you to relocate to Africa must be answered with a view to adequately provide for it. If you’re going to establish a business for instance, and you are yet to position such venture in a way that it can run itself and has been able to achieve a level of success, then, you’re on the wrong side. The basic thing about relocation, the golden rule by all standards is security. This includes financial security, a constantly flowing multiple source of income for sustenance to guard against any economic distress. You don’t want to get stressed out with anxiety.
Of course, different folds for different folks they say, after discovering your motivation, get to learn and know the specifics. For instance, location awareness can help guard against securing a home in a crime infested community or flood prone area. It doesn't matter whether you are settling down in Kampala, Lagos or Johannesburg This is true of individuals setting up businesses as well. Many face the high cost of buildings and have to deal with issues of logistics due to traffic and high population in places, whereas, they could easily establish their businesses in places where there is comparative advantage.
It will interest you to know that despite the negative label about Africa, the continent offers still some amazing opportunities to thrive and live a life of comfort. However, many Diasporans have often fallen prey to the ‘yankee just come syndrome’, where they believe the natural conditions available for instant success can be replicated. This is very possible, though with some diligence and sacrifice.
Networking is a major survival and success skill. Get acquainted with people that have different backgrounds. This is the best way to find new opportunities and friends that can help you get along really well into the system.
Understanding the state of mind of people on ground, assimilation and adjustments are key elements that makes your home coming a most worthy experience.
Getting educated in universities abroad is an added advantage for those seeking gainful employment back home. Employers are interested in what you’re bringing to the table. Africans in the Diaspora are the real deal for employers as they help bridge the capacity gap in-country while simultaneously fulfilling local content obligations. Furthermore, there’s a psychological appeal to have a graduate from Manchester University or Sussex on the list of management team. Nigerians back home will jump at anything western. The global competitive nature of businesses today makes expatriates the most wanted especially, with the high level of skill and sophistication of valuable knowledge.
Don’t just take any job with the highest salary. Find something you’re passionate about and don’t feel pressured into a role that you won’t perform well in.
Africa is in a stage of transition leading to an increase in development projects in established industries such as infrastructure (power, water, roads, etc.), agriculture, manufacturing, telecommunications, healthcare, and so on. At the heart of these new phase of development is Innovation. Finding business solutions for any of the major sectors that are tech driven, can be of great benefit.
Ask yourself, What can be introduced to the banking sector to make their workflow effective? Will lawyers and the court system be able to become more effective with your solutions? Do you have a retention strategy on ground and a go-to market strategy? The opportunities are limitless if you have a problem to solve.
Header Image Credit: travelpulse.com
