Relocation Trends in Africa
- Move One Relocations
- 16 hours ago
- 2 min read
As relocation activity expands across Africa, companies are reevaluating their mobility policies to meet evolving employee expectations and address on-the-ground realities. This Insider explores key elements commonly included in modern policies for major African markets, along with regional trends and practical considerations.
POLICY HIGHLIGHTS ACROSS THE CONTINENT
Pre-Assignment Support
Relocation to many African destinations begins with a critical preparatory phase. Companies often offer a Look & See or Preview Trip to help assignees and their families assess living conditions, schools, healthcare, and housing options. Cultural training is frequently included to bridge significant cultural differences and promote integration. In high-risk locations, pre-departure security briefings are standard to help assignees understand and mitigate potential risks.
Immigration Compliance
Given the often complex and bureaucratic immigration systems in many African countries, end-to-end immigration support is a vital part of relocation policies. Processes are seldom transparent or digitized, so local expertise is crucial. Importantly, most countries restrict spousal employment, which impacts family considerations and policy design.
Housing & Settling-In
Temporary housing, typically for 30 to 60 days, is standard in initial relocation stages. This buffer allows time to secure suitable long-term accommodation in expatriate-approved areas. These areas are selected for safety, proximity to international schools, and quality infrastructure. Settling-in support includes tasks like setting up utilities, mobile services, and local bank accounts.
Security Considerations
Security is a central concern in many African markets. Policies often provide for secure, gated housing and, in some cases, company-arranged transport or chauffeur services. Housing options are vetted to ensure compliance with internal company safety protocols, including backup power, clean water access, and perimeter security.
Cost of Living & Hardship
Many cities in Africa warrant hardship allowances due to challenges like limited healthcare access, political instability, and infrastructure gaps. Cost of Living Adjustments (COLA) are benchmarked using international indices and ensure expatriates maintain comparable purchasing power.
Education
Access to quality international schools is a top concern for relocating families. School placement services are standard policy components, especially where space is limited or waiting lists exist. Education support also extends to assistance with documentation, admissions testing, and liaison with school administrators.
Healthcare
Private health insurance that includes international evacuation is not just recommended—it is often mandatory. Many African countries lack consistent access to quality care, and policies include lists of vetted clinics and hospitals. Medical briefings and emergency protocols are part of pre-assignment orientation.
Repatriation
End-of-assignment support includes assistance with household goods shipment, closure of local accounts, and temporary accommodation in the home country. Some policies also offer career transition support or re-integration services for returning assignees.
REGIONAL TRENDS & OBSERVATIONS
Core-flex and tiered policy models are gaining traction for greater flexibility and cost control. Duty of care and employee experience are taking centre stage in relocation strategies.
Short-term or commuter assignments are increasingly used where full relocation is challenging.At Move One, we continue to support our clients with localized expertise and real-time insights from across the continent. Our team is here to help.
Contact us at: relo@moveoneinc.com
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