How to choose an expansion location for your business in Africa

A business that’s performing well in its own country of origin is very likely to start eyeing international markets where it can expand even further; it is a logical step for most. However, there are multiple components to consider: Will the chosen location for the expansion have a demand for a fresh service or product in this niche? How could the political and financial environment impact overall operations of the business? Does it make sense to register an entity immediately?

Assessing these considerations will contribute to wise decisions towards the expansion on the African continent. Ultimately, choosing the ‘right’ location to set up your operations will definitely impact the return on investment you make.

Here are some pro tips on how to choose the best possible location for your business in Africa.

Tips to choose an African expansion location

Tip 1: Consider the political and financial situation of the location

When expanding into a new market, it is crucial to have a solid knowledge of the political structure and economical environment of country you have chosen for your business expansion. This will mitigate certain risks and ensure your Organisation is compliant to local laws.

While every international growth strategy differs, it is always a good idea to verify the following:

  • Will you have access to all materials and resources you need for production?
  • Are there any regulations in place concerning the import of raw materials if necessary?
  • Does the location’s government have any business assistance programs in place?
  • Does your finished product or service meet the needs of the local market?

Some businesses may find it hard to answer these questions, especially when considering there often is a lack of information available online for different African locations. If this is the case, consider turning to business specialists in Africa (such as Africa HR Solutions) to find your answers.

Tip 2: Check if the location has the required ‘talents’ for your business

Another critical element when expanding to a foreign location is knowing whether the locals will make decent employees. The manpower needed to effectively run your production line will vary according to which vertical you are in, but it is essential you sort this out before starting your expansion process. This way, you will be able to figure out if your future employees will require any sort of specific training, or if they already have the skills required to handle the job.

Moreover, it is important to check out the salary ranges for the different positions you may want to fill. While most of the time employing a local on the African continent may cost lower than taking on an Expat, it is worth verifying salary surveys to avoid any unexpected surprises. Additionally, this step will help you better budget your expenses and you may even find yourself in the local government’s ‘good books’ if you will be providing long term local employment.

Setting up a registered entity in a new market may not be as easy as it seems, especially on the African continent. Luckily, this is not the only option available: you can use an Employer of Record instead.

Your ultimate decision should be based on what your business objectives are and what time-frame you have at hand. Depending on the country of expansion, it may take months to finally get your entity approved and registered. On the other hand, using a PEO service can get you up and running within weeks. This also allows you to ‘test’ a new market with minimal investments.

In the end, it all comes down to your business situation: your finances, your timeframes, your requirements and your objectives. It is worth considering both sides of the coin before taking a step ahead.

Tip 4 (Bonus): You don’t have to expand alone

Africa HR Solutions offers a full range of business services dedicated to Organisations looking to get a footprint in Africa.

You can get a definite advantage over the competition by using our services.

  • Simplest and fastest way to hire people without having a registered entity
  • We manage the payroll and employment duties
  • Single solution for all your HR requirements in Africa & a central point of contact for all your queries
  • Always available for your queries and reports
  • Full compliance with local legislation’s – expert across Africa
  • Centralising of payroll functions
  • Team dedicated to quality and flexibility to meet your requirements
  • Up to date statutory changes through multiple sources
  • Professional indemnity and employer liability

As always, Africa HR Solutions guarantees 100% compliance for your business operations in Africa.

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How Can We Help You?

GRANT GERAGHTY - Africa HR Team

GRANT GERAGHTY

HEAD OF CLIENT RELATIONSHIP

Grant Geraghty is the longest-serving member of the Africa HR team. This resident subject matter expert and client champion is responsible for gaining a deep understanding of our clients’ unique HR needs in Africa and providing tailored solutions that align with their business objectives. Grant collabourates closely with our clients to ensure that their requirements are properly implemented, providing ongoing support and guidance throughout the process.

Grant brings a wealth of experience to his role, having served as Africa HR’s longest-serving employee. He holds a Bachelor of Commerce degree, with a major in Economics and Business Finance, from the University of Natal in South Africa. Additionally, he has completed a certification program in Payroll and Tax Administration from the University of Cape Town, further enhancing his expertise in HR operations and compliance.

His commitment to delivering exceptional service and his extensive knowledge of HR in Africa make him an invaluable member of the Africa HR team.

KEVINA TAKOORDYAL Africa HR Team

KEVINA TAKOORDYAL

HEAD OF OPERATIONS

Kevina Takoordyal has a BA Hons Business Management from the University of Glamorgan, UK, with MBA in leadership and Innovation, MBA General, PMP Certified, and Agile Scrum Master. She currently works as the Head of Operations at Africa HR Solutions Ltd with more than 20 years of proven leadership capabilities in Operations, Business Development, People Management, Process Optimization, and Project Management in the Financial Services, BPO, Banking Industry, and Heath Care Industry. In Senior leadership roles with an international footprint across Europe working and extensive Pan- African experience from a compliance, finance, and operations angle, Kevina comes across with a panoply of cross-functional skills. Kevina also serves on a few Boards, Non-Independent Executive at MioD and for NGOs on a voluntary basis, a coach and mentor to aspiring female leaders across Africa and Mauritius.

Kevina is a firm believer in Servant Leadership with a strong focus and commitment to uplifting others, with the ability to deliver through a highly engaged – diverse team, and works towards consistently synergistic value creation. While being a focused and adaptive thinker and Kevina is actively participating in panel discussions on Innovation, CX, Digital transformation.

Kevina serves as Project Assessor for the National Youth upskilling program. She has been recognized as Global Talent in a few companies, Ceridian, and International SOS Ltd whereby she has been awarded a few scholarships and had the opportunity to be mentored by Senior Vice President in the US. Award Winner in various fields and at a national level and recognized including Super Achiever Leader Award in Africa in 2016, Awarded Africa Women Leader 2018.

VILOSHNA PACKIRY POULLE​

VILOSHNA PACKIRY POULLE

Head of Finance & Business Support

Viloshna is an experienced finance professional with 18 years of expertise in strategic financial planning, financial analysis, cash flow management, systems and controls implementation, financial reporting, and continuous process improvements. She currently serves as Head of Finance & Business Support, where she has successfully automated and leveraged the financial reporting system capabilities to ensure efficient company operations.

Viloshna’s background includes senior roles in a multinational pharmaceutical company and a large listed Mauritian conglomerate. Her meticulous attention to detail and strategic thinking have streamlined financial processes, making her a valuable addition to any finance team. Viloshna is a qualified finance professional with an FCCA qualification and an MBA, bringing valuable expertise to any Organisation.

In her current role, Viloshna leads the company’s Treasury and Payments function, including the fulfillment of the company’s cross-border payments into Africa. With her strong educational background and extensive experience, Viloshna consistently demonstrates her ability to optimize financial operations, minimize risks, and improve profitability. Her expertise in financial reporting and process improvements make her a valuable asset to any Organisation.

MARK DU PREEZ​

MARK DU PREEZ

Head of Legal & Compliance

A qualified lawyer who joined Africa HR Solutions in July 2020, Mark Du Preez has experience working in private practice for a reputable law firm in South Africa. He also played commercially focused roles at a leading private bank, wealth management company, and outsourcing firm in South Africa and Mauritius.

Mark has played a pivotal role in Africa HR Solution’s risk mitigation strategy, which positively impacted P&L performance over the years.

He currently leads the Partnerships function of the company including relationships and oversight with in-country partners (ICPs) across Africa.

Alex Daruty - Africa HR Team

ALEX DARUTY

Head of Commercial

Alex has more than 15 years of experience in the global, strategic development of both enterprise and consumer brands in categories including technology, transport, enterprise software, entertainment, and travel.

With experience in roles on both agency and corporate side, he has worked across international brands and has led the development and execution of multi-discipline campaigns across EMEA, NORAM and Asia Pacific.

His focus is on driving meaningful business impact through brand differentiation and building high-functioning, digitally oriented, and analytically driven capabilities. He is motivated by working with, and developing dynamic people, teams, and Organisations.

He leads, manages, develops and mentors the Key Account Management department, including line management responsibility for the team of Key Account Managers and Key Account Administrator who represent the Company as the primary communication link between all relevant stakeholders, including clients, third party in-country partners and internal functions.

Originally from Mauritius, he holds bachelor’s degrees in International Business, Finance and Management from the University of Nevada, Reno.