Factors to Consider for Parents Relocating to Africa

Are you, like myself, contemplating a transformative move to Africa with your children? In today’s article, I’ll share insights into how I am navigating this bold adventure.

From understanding Africa’s cultural diversity to choosing an education system suitable for your children, I uncover the elements required in choosing the right haven for your family, ensuring your move isn’t just a leap of faith but a well-informed, strategic decision.

1. Understanding the Diversity of Africa

Firstly, it’s essential to recognise that Africa is incredibly diverse, comprising 54 countries, each with its unique culture, language, economic status and climate. This diversity means that the experience of living in Morocco can be vastly different from that in South Africa or Kenya. Therefore, a broad-brush approach to choosing a location in Africa is not advisable. For me, a key decision is wanting my children to learn French and living in a country with cultural similarities and food to Sierra Leone. Therefore, I would be content settling in any of the Francophone countries in West Africa.

2. Safety and Political Stability

One of the primary concerns for parents is the safety and political stability of the country. Researching the current political climate, crime rates and general safety for foreigners and expatriates is crucial. Recently, Africa has witnessed several coups, leading to perceptions of instability across the continent. However, it’s worth noting that coups can sometimes lead to stability in a country. Moreover, these political upheavals may not significantly impact your day-to-day life. Then there are countries like Botswana and Ghana that are known for their stability and relatively low crime rates compared to some other African nations.

3. Education System

For families with children, the quality and type of education available is a major factor. Look into the local education system, availability of international schools, curriculum types (such as British, American or International Baccalaureate) and the language of instruction. Countries like South Africa and Kenya for instance, have a good selection of international schools and there is an American school in nearly every African country, although they tend to be expensive.

4. Healthcare Facilities

Access to quality healthcare is paramount. Research the healthcare system of the countries you are considering. Some countries may have excellent healthcare facilities in urban areas but limited services in rural regions. Private healthcare options are also something to consider, especially in countries where public healthcare may not meet your expectations.

5. Economic Opportunities

Consider the economic environment of the country, especially if you plan to work locally or even run a business. Some African countries like Cote d’Ivoire offer vibrant job markets for expatriates in certain sectors. Look into the demand for your profession and the general economic health of the country.

6. Cost of Living

The cost of living varies significantly across Africa. While some cities like Luanda in Angola and N’Djamena in Chad are known to be quite expensive for expatriates, other places offer a much more affordable cost of living. Consider your budget and the cost of essentials like housing, food, transportation and education.

7. Cultural and Language Barriers

Understanding and respecting local cultures and languages is key to integrating into a new community. Consider if you are willing to learn a new language if necessary, and think about how cultural differences might impact your family’s lifestyle and adaptation to the new environment.

8. Climate and Geography

Africa’s climate varies from tropical to arid to temperate. Consider what type of climate is suitable for your family. Also, think about the geographical landscape you prefer – whether it’s coastal cities, mountainous regions or bustling urban centres.

9. Community and Social Life

The presence of an expatriate community or social groups can be important for social support and networking. Countries with a significant expatriate population often have well-established networks that can help in the transition and integration process.

10. Long-term Prospects

Consider the long-term prospects of living in the country. This includes potential for residency or citizenship, quality of life, opportunities for your children as they grow and the overall trajectory of the country’s development.

11. Environmental Concerns

For environmentally conscious families, factors like air quality, pollution levels and the presence of natural reserves or parks might be important. Some African countries like Gabon and Rwanda are making significant strides in environmental conservation and offer a great environment for nature lovers.

12. Accessibility and Connectivity

Consider how well connected the country is, both internally and internationally. Ease of travel, availability of international flights, and connectivity to other countries can be important, especially if you plan to travel often or have family members living abroad.

Conclusion

Relocating to Africa can offer a rich and rewarding experience for families, it can expose your children to diverse cultures, landscapes and lifestyles. However, it’s crucial to conduct thorough research and consider all the factors I mentioned to ensure that the move is successful and fulfilling for every family member. Remember, what works for one family might not work for another, so personalize your decision based on your family’s specific needs and preferences.

Best of luck with your planning. Should you need any assistance, feel free to reach out to me at departure@packlyst.com. I’ll be more than happy to offer my help.