Key regions in Africa can look forward to improved employment prospects in the year ahead, with many firms planning to add to the headcount. The positive perspective comes from Regus, the global provider of flexible workspace with direct representation in 16 African nations.
Global research by Regus says many companies report rising revenue and profits and are looking to hire more workers. The international study includes employers in North, East and South Africa.
Research results are particularly positive for those looking for jobs in sales or operational functions, says Joanne Bushell, vice president Africa for Regus.
She adds: "African employers are looking to expand despite a sometimes uncertain business environment - underlining the importance of intelligent office space solutions that enable a company to expand and adjust their requirements in line with shifts in the market cycle.
"This is good news for a solutions-provider like Regus that delivers cost savings by enabling businesses to pay only for the space and facilities they use. At the same time, the prospect of jobs growth is positive for African economies at large."
This positivity bolsters a business confidence index score which has risen across Africa since October 2012. East Africa rose by one point to 132 points, North Africa stands at 122 points, up 22 points and South Africa rose five points to 121 points.
Key findings and statistics across South, East and North Africa:
| EA | NA | SA | Global | | Businesses which are planning to increase or maintain headcount in 2013 | 92% | 82% | 92% | 85% |
| Businesses which plan to increase headcount by more than 5% | 31% | 15% | 31% | 25% |
| Firms that think they will hire more sales and marketing staff | 56% | 56% | 57% | 57% |
| Improved job prospects for operational staff | 52% | 46% | 40% | 40% |
| Businesses which report rising revenues over the last 12 months | 58% | 63% | 57% | 49% |
| Increased profits | 46% | 43% | 43% | 39% |
The international Regus study covers more than 26 000 businesses in 90 countries. It shows that 85% of international businesses are planning to increase or maintain headcount in 2013. The global Regus Business Confidence Index moved three points higher to 114 points.
