A lot of us are desperate to leave our current situation. Most of the Western world, it seems, is moving towards fascism and racism and we want no part of it. But before you pack up and leave and move to a small corner of Africa, you must make sure that decision is the right one.

Relocating to an African country is one of the most significant decisions a member of the diaspora can make. Whether your motivation is purpose, lifestyle change, cultural reconnection or economic opportunity, making the move requires clarity. Not vibes, not pressure and not romanticised expectations.

This guide breaks down seven essential questions to help you decide if relocating to Africa is the right step for you right now. Use it as a thinking tool, a clarity check and a roadmap for next steps.

Why Are So Many in the Diaspora Exploring Relocation?

Across the UK, US, EU and the Western world more people of African descent are asking a simple but powerful question: What would my life look like if I went home?

Common motivations include:

• Desire for community and cultural belonging

• Frustration with systemic challenges in the West

• Interest in new business or investment opportunities

• Wanting a slower, more meaningful lifestyle

• Raising children in an environment that reflects their identity

• Returning to land, culture and roots

But a successful relocation requires strategy, not emotion alone. Start by asking yourself the seven questions below.

1. What is my real motivation for relocating?

Be honest: Are you running from something or moving toward something?

Motivations rooted in purpose and vision tend to lead to better long-term outcomes than motivations rooted solely in escape.

Helpful prompts:

• What feels missing in my current life?

• What do I hope Africa will give me?

• Which values am I trying to honour?

You can download your free Africa Why Worksheet here.

2. What is my timeline and is it realistic?

Many relocations fail because timelines are rushed.

Consider:

• Time needed to save money

• Visa processes

• Job transitions

• Family preparation

• Housing and school research

A phased approach (visit → scout trip → short-term stay → long-term move) increases success rates.

3. What is my financial runway?

Relocation always takes more money than expected.

Plan for:

• Savings for 6–12 months

• Housing deposits

• Business setup (if applicable)

• Healthcare

• Unexpected costs

• Travel and relocation logistics

Underestimating finances is one of the biggest triggers for relocation stress and burnout.

4. What skills do I bring and where do they fit?

Many diaspora returnees thrive when they understand:

• Which of their skills are transferable

• Which industries are growing

• Where local opportunity aligns with global experience

Ask:

• How can my skills solve a problem locally?

• Do I need additional training before moving?

• Would remote work support my transition?

5. How does my family fit into this decision?

If you’re moving solo, this involves personal readiness.
If you’re moving with children, a partner or dependents, the considerations multiply.

Think about:

• School systems

• Safety and lifestyle preferences

• Healthcare needs

• Partner buy-in

• Elderly parents

Relocation works best when everyone understands the plan and the “why.”

6. What are my expectations and are they grounded in reality?

Africa is not a monolith. Each country offers different:

• Systems

• Infrastructure

• Cultures

• Business environments

• Lifestyles

If your expectations are based on social media aesthetics rather than lived reality, your transition will be harder.

Research and first-hand experience are essential.

7. What is my risk tolerance?

Ask yourself:

• How do I handle uncertainty?

• Can I adapt to slower processes?

• How comfortable am I with ambiguity?

• Can I handle things not going to plan?

Relocation requires flexibility. Expect ups, downs and learning curves.

Signs Africa Is Right for You

You may be ready if:

• You have a clear purpose or vision

• You’re willing to adapt and learn

• You can navigate new systems without frustration

• You’ve saved enough to give yourself cushion

• You respect local cultures and are ready to integrate

• You’ve done first-hand research or taken at least one scouting trip

Signs You Need More Preparation

You may need more time if:

• You are moving to escape a crisis

• You have romantic or unrealistic expectations

• Your finances are unstable

• You have no idea which country fits your goals

• You haven’t done any on-ground research

• Your timeline is rushed or emotionally driven

There is no shame in pausing. A strategic relocation is far more successful than a rushed one.

Next Step: Get Your Free Africa Why Worksheet

To help you organise your thoughts and map out your motivations and expectations.