The Complete Guide to Landing Remote Jobs in Africa [2025]

Introduction

Remote work has transformed the African job market. What was once a rare luxury is now a viable career path for millions across the continent. From software developers in Lagos earning $3,000 monthly to customer service representatives in Nairobi working for US companies, remote opportunities are reshaping how Africans work.

The numbers are compelling:

• Over 1,061 remote jobs currently available in Ghana alone
• Average remote work salary in Ghana: GHS 697,291 per year
• African tech workers can earn $7,500 - $42,000 annually depending on country and role
• Remote work opportunities growing 400%+ in the last 3 years

This comprehensive guide will show you:

• Where to find legitimate remote jobs
• Which skills are most in-demand
• How to stand out in remote job applications
• Salary expectations across different African countries
• Essential tools and equipment needed
• How to avoid scams and find quality opportunities

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The Remote Work Revolution in Africa

Why Remote Work is Booming in Africa

1. Digital Infrastructure Improvements

• Expanding 4G/5G network coverage
• Increasing internet penetration (now 40%+ across many African nations)
• Submarine cable investments improving connectivity
• Declining data costs

2. Global Talent Shortage

• Western companies facing tech talent gaps
• African professionals offering competitive skills at lower costs
• Time zone advantages (African hours overlap with Europe and Middle East)

3. Young, Tech-Savvy Population

• 60% of Africa's population is under 25
• Rising computer literacy rates
• Growing number of coding bootcamps and online learning

4. Economic Factors

• Currency advantages (USD/EUR earnings stretch further in local economies)
• Rising cost of office space encouraging companies to hire remotely
• Freelance and gig economy growth

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Types of Remote Jobs Available in Africa

1. Technology & Software Development

Roles:

• Software Engineers (Frontend, Backend, Full-Stack)
• Mobile App Developers (iOS, Android, React Native)
• Web Developers
• DevOps Engineers
• QA/Testing Engineers
• UI/UX Designers

Average Salaries:

• Entry-level: $6,000 - $18,000/year
• Mid-level: $18,000 - $40,000/year
• Senior: $40,000 - $70,000+/year

Key Skills:

• JavaScript, Python, Java, PHP
• React, Angular, Vue.js
• Node.js, Django, Laravel
• Git, Docker, AWS, Azure
• Agile/Scrum methodologies

Where to Find These Jobs:

• Remote4Africa.com
• RemoteAfrica.io
• AngelList
• We Work Remotely
• Stack Overflow Jobs

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2. Digital Marketing & Content Creation

Roles:

• Digital Marketing Specialists
• Content Writers/Copywriters
• Social Media Managers
• SEO Specialists
• Email Marketing Specialists
• Graphic Designers
• Video Editors

Average Salaries:

• Entry-level: $4,800 - $12,000/year
• Mid-level: $12,000 - $30,000/year
• Senior/Specialized: $30,000 - $50,000+/year

Key Skills:

• SEO/SEM expertise
• Google Analytics, Google Ads
• Social media platforms (Facebook Ads, Instagram, LinkedIn)
• Content management systems (WordPress, Webflow)
• Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator)
• Video editing (Premiere Pro, Final Cut Pro)

Platforms:

• Upwork
• Fiverr
• Contently
• ProBlogger Job Board
• LinkedIn Jobs

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3. Customer Support & Virtual Assistance

Roles:

• Customer Service Representatives
• Technical Support Agents
• Virtual Assistants
• Chat Support Specialists
• Email Support Specialists

Average Salaries:

• Entry-level: $3,600 - $9,600/year
• Experienced: $9,600 - $18,000/year
• Specialized (technical support): $15,000 - $25,000/year

Key Skills:

• Excellent written and verbal English
• CRM software (Zendesk, Intercom, Salesforce)
• Fast typing speed (50+ WPM)
• Problem-solving abilities
• Multi-tasking and organization
• Basic tech troubleshooting

Companies Hiring:

• LiveOps
• TTEC
• Alorica
• Sutherland
• CloudFactory

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4. Data & Analytics

Roles:

• Data Analysts
• Data Scientists
• Business Intelligence Analysts
• Data Entry Specialists
• Data Labeling Specialists

Average Salaries:

• Data Entry: $3,600 - $8,400/year
• Data Analysts: $12,000 - $35,000/year
• Data Scientists: $25,000 - $60,000+/year

Key Skills:

• Excel (Advanced), SQL
• Python, R
• Tableau, Power BI
• Statistical analysis
• Machine learning (for data scientists)
• Data visualization

Job Boards:

• Kaggle Jobs
• DataJobs.com
• Analytics India Magazine Job Board
• Remote4Africa (Data Science section)

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5. Teaching & Education

Roles:

• Online English Teachers (ESL)
• Subject Tutors (Math, Science, etc.)
• E-learning Content Developers
• Curriculum Designers
• Corporate Trainers

Average Salaries:

• ESL Teachers: $5,000 - $15,000/year
• Subject Tutors: $6,000 - $20,000/year
• Instructional Designers: $15,000 - $35,000/year

Key Skills:

• Teaching certification (TEFL, TESOL for ESL)
• Subject matter expertise
• Video communication skills
• Patience and adaptability
• Curriculum development
• Learning Management Systems (Moodle, Canvas)

Platforms:

• VIPKid (ESL)
• Cambly (Conversational English)
• Tutor.com
• Chegg Tutors
• Udemy (create courses)

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6. Writing & Translation

Roles:

• Content Writers
• Technical Writers
• Copywriters
• Translators (French, Arabic, Portuguese, Swahili)
• Editors/Proofreaders

Average Salaries:

• Entry-level Writers: $4,800 - $12,000/year
• Experienced Writers: $12,000 - $30,000/year
• Specialized (Technical/Medical): $20,000 - $45,000+/year
• Translators: $10,000 - $35,000/year

Key Skills:

• Excellent grammar and writing
• Research skills
• SEO writing
• Specific industry knowledge (finance, tech, health)
• Multiple language fluency (for translators)
• Content management systems

Where to Apply:

• Contently
• Textbroker
• Scripted
• Gengo (translation)
• TranslatorsCafe

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7. Finance & Accounting

Roles:

• Remote Bookkeepers
• Accountants
• Financial Analysts
• Payroll Specialists
• Tax Preparers

Average Salaries:

• Bookkeepers: $8,000 - $20,000/year
• Accountants: $15,000 - $40,000/year
• Financial Analysts: $20,000 - $50,000+/year

Key Skills:

• Accounting software (QuickBooks, Xero, Sage)
• IFRS/GAAP knowledge
• Excel (Advanced)
• Financial modeling
• Tax regulations
• Professional certifications (ACCA, CPA, CA)

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8. Sales & Business Development

Roles:

• Remote Sales Representatives
• Business Development Managers
• Account Executives
• Sales Development Representatives (SDRs)

Average Salaries:

• Base: $8,000 - $25,000/year
• With Commission: $15,000 - $60,000+/year

Key Skills:

• CRM proficiency (Salesforce, HubSpot)
• Sales methodologies (SPIN, Challenger)
• Cold calling/emailing
• Negotiation
• Lead generation
• Pipeline management

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Country-Specific Remote Work Insights

Ghana

Remote Job Availability: 1,061+ active listings

Average Remote Salary: GHS 697,291/year ($57,000)

Popular Roles: Software Development, Digital Marketing, Customer Support

Best Platforms: Remote4Africa, Jobberman, LinkedIn

Challenges:

• Occasional power outages (invest in backup power)
• Internet reliability (fiber recommended over mobile data)

Opportunities:

• Growing fintech sector hiring remotely
• International NGOs based in Accra hiring remote staff
• Overlap with UK/Europe time zones

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Nigeria

Remote Job Availability: 5,000+ opportunities

Average Software Developer Salary: $7,500 - $15,000/year (Lagos-based remote)

Popular Roles: Tech, Content Creation, Customer Service

Best Platforms: Jobberman, RemoteAfrica, AngelList

Advantages:

• Largest tech ecosystem in Africa
• Strong freelance community
• Many Nigerian startups hiring remotely

Challenges:

• Internet infrastructure varies by location
• Power supply issues (generator/solar recommended)

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Kenya

Remote Job Availability: 3,500+ roles

Average Salary Range: KES 50,000 - 200,000/month for remote tech roles

Popular Roles: Data Science, Software Engineering, Customer Support

Best Platforms: BrighterMonday, Remote4Africa, LinkedIn

Strengths:

• Well-established digital economy
• M-Pesa integration makes payments easy
• Strong startup ecosystem (Nairobi tech hub)
• Good internet infrastructure in major cities

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South Africa

Remote Job Availability: 8,000+ listings

Average Developer Salary: R420,000 - R850,000/year ($22,000 - $45,000)

Popular Roles: Software Development, Data Analytics, Digital Marketing

Best Platforms: OfferZen, Remote.co.za, LinkedIn

Advantages:

• Best internet infrastructure in Africa
• Large pool of experienced remote workers
• Favorable time zone for European clients
• Strong English proficiency

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How to Find Legitimate Remote Jobs

Top Remote Job Boards for Africa

1. Remote4Africa.com

• Curated remote jobs specifically for Africans
• Categories: Tech, Marketing, Customer Service, Design
• Vetted companies to reduce scams
• Free to use

2. RemoteAfrica.io

• Africa-focused remote opportunities
• Startups and international companies
• Job alerts available
• Company profiles and reviews

3. We Work Remotely

• One of the largest remote job boards globally
• Strong tech and marketing sections
• Filter by time zone
• Premium listings from reputable companies

4. Remote.co

• Quality remote positions
• Company profiles
• Remote work resources and guides

5. AngelList (Wellfound)

• Startup jobs (many remote)
• Direct application to founders
• Equity compensation often included
• Strong tech focus

6. LinkedIn

• Use "Remote" location filter
• Set job alerts for remote opportunities
• Network with remote workers
• Research companies hiring remotely

7. FlexJobs

• Curated, scam-free listings (subscription required)
• Wide variety of industries
• Career coaching included

8. Jobgether

• Remote jobs in Africa filter
• User-friendly interface
• Multiple countries and industries

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Company Websites Hiring Remotely in Africa

International Tech Companies:

• Andela (developer training + placement)
• GitLab (all-remote company)
• Automattic (WordPress)
• Toptal (freelance network)
• CloudFactory (data annotation)

African Startups Hiring Remotely:

• Flutterwave (Fintech - Nigeria)
• Paystack (Fintech - Nigeria)
• Twiga Foods (Kenya)
• Yoco (South Africa)
• Wave Mobile Money (Senegal)

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How to Stand Out in Remote Job Applications

1. Optimize Your CV for Remote Roles

Highlight:

• Previous remote work experience (even if part-time or freelance)
• Self-management and autonomy
• Communication skills (written and verbal)
• Time management abilities
• Familiarity with remote tools

Example:

`

Successfully delivered 15+ projects remotely while managing multiple client

time zones (EST, GMT, AEST). Maintained 98% on-time delivery rate through

disciplined time management and proactive communication via Slack, Zoom,

and Asana.

`

2. Create a Strong Online Presence

LinkedIn Profile:

• Professional photo
• Headline stating you're open to remote work
• Detailed experience section
• Skills endorsed by colleagues
• Active engagement (share industry content)

Portfolio Website:

• Essential for designers, developers, writers
• Showcase 5-10 best projects
• Include client testimonials
• Make it mobile-responsive
• Add clear contact information

GitHub Profile (for developers):

• Active contributions
• Well-documented projects
• Contribution streak
• Pinned repositories showcasing skills

3. Master Remote Tools

Communication:

• Slack, Microsoft Teams, Discord
• Zoom, Google Meet
• Email etiquette

Project Management:

• Asana, Trello, Monday.com
• Jira (for software development)
• Notion

Collaboration:

• Google Workspace (Docs, Sheets, Drive)
• Miro, FigJam (brainstorming)
• Loom (video messages)

Time Tracking:

• Toggl, Harvest
• Time Doctor (some companies require this)

List these tools on your CV if you've used them.

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4. Ace the Remote Interview

Technical Setup:

• Test your internet connection beforehand
• Use a quiet, well-lit space
• Ensure your camera and microphone work
• Have backup (mobile hotspot) ready
• Close unnecessary applications

Video Interview Best Practices:

• Dress professionally (at least top half!)
• Make eye contact (look at camera, not screen)
• Minimize distractions (silent phone, close door)
• Have water nearby
• Prepare questions about remote work culture

Common Remote Interview Questions:

• "How do you manage your time when working remotely?"
• "Describe your ideal remote work environment"
• "How do you handle communication across time zones?"
• "Tell me about a time you solved a problem independently"
• "What tools do you use to stay organized?"

Prepare STAR method answers (Situation, Task, Action, Result) demonstrating:

• Self-discipline
• Communication skills
• Problem-solving independently
• Meeting deadlines without supervision

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Essential Setup for Remote Work in Africa

1. Reliable Internet Connection

Recommendations:

• Fiber connection (most reliable): MTN Fiber, Vodafone Fiber (Ghana), Safaricom Fiber (Kenya), Ntel (Nigeria)
• Minimum speed: 10 Mbps download, 2 Mbps upload
• Have a backup: Mobile hotspot with data bundle
• Test your connection: speedtest.net

Cost:

• Ghana: GHS 150-400/month for 10-50 Mbps
• Nigeria: NGN 10,000-25,000/month
• Kenya: KES 2,500-5,000/month
• South Africa: R500-900/month

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2. Power Backup

Options:

• UPS (Uninterruptible Power Supply): GHS 400-1,500
• Provides 1-3 hours backup
• Protects equipment from power surges
• Inverter + Battery: GHS 2,000-5,000
• Longer backup time (4-8 hours)
• Powers laptop, router, modem
• Generator: GHS 1,500-8,000
• Extended power during outages
• Noisy, requires fuel
• Solar Power: GHS 8,000-30,000
• Long-term investment
• Eco-friendly, no fuel costs

Budget Tip: Start with a basic UPS (GHS 500) for your laptop and router.

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3. Equipment

Must-Haves:

• Laptop: Minimum i5 processor, 8GB RAM, 256GB SSD
• Budget: Lenovo ThinkPad, HP ProBook (GHS 2,500-4,000)
• Mid-range: Dell XPS, MacBook Air (GHS 5,000-8,000)
• Headset with Microphone: Clear audio for calls
• Budget: Jabra Evolve 20 (GHS 150)
• Quality: Logitech H800, Jabra Evolve 75 (GHS 400-800)
• Webcam: (if laptop camera is poor)
• Logitech C920, C922 (GHS 300-500)
• Ergonomic Setup:
• External keyboard and mouse (GHS 100-300)
• Laptop stand or monitor (GHS 200-1,500)
• Comfortable chair (invest in quality: GHS 500-2,000)

Nice-to-Haves:

• Second monitor (boosts productivity 30%+)
• Standing desk converter
• Ring light (for better video quality)
• Noise-canceling headphones

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4. Dedicated Workspace

Even in small spaces:

• Designate a specific work area
• Minimize distractions
• Good lighting (natural + desk lamp)
• Organized (desk, shelves, cable management)
• Door or divider for privacy during calls

Productivity Tip: Separate work and personal life. When you're in your workspace, you're "at work."

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Avoiding Remote Job Scams

🚩 Red Flags to Watch For

1. "Pay us to get hired"

• Legitimate companies never charge application fees
• No "registration fees" or "training deposits"

1. Too good to be true salaries

• "$5,000/month for data entry with no experience" ← Scam
• Research typical salaries for the role

1. Vague job descriptions

• "Make money from home doing easy tasks"
• Legit jobs clearly state responsibilities

1. Personal information requests upfront

• Never share bank details, ID, or passwords before hiring
• Companies ask for these AFTER you're hired

1. Unprofessional communication

• Poor grammar, typos in official emails
• Emails from free domains (@gmail, @yahoo) instead of company domain

1. Pressure tactics

• "Apply now! Only 2 spots left!"
• "Send money today or lose this opportunity"

1. No company online presence

• Legitimate companies have websites, LinkedIn pages, reviews
• Google the company name + "scam" or "reviews"

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✅ How to Verify Legitimate Opportunities

Before Applying:

1. Google the company name
2. Check LinkedIn company page (employees, activity)
3. Look for Glassdoor/Indeed reviews
4. Verify job posting on company's official website
5. Search for company on Crunchbase (for startups)

During Interview:

1. Video call should show real people in professional settings
2. Ask detailed questions about the role and company
3. Request to speak with current team members
4. Ask for a formal offer letter with clear terms

Before Accepting:

1. Get offer in writing via official company email
2. Review contract thoroughly
3. Clarify payment terms (method, frequency, currency)
4. Confirm work hours and time zone expectations
5. Understand probation period and termination clauses

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Getting Paid: Payment Methods for African Remote Workers

1. PayPal

Availability: Kenya, South Africa, Zimbabwe, Nigeria (limited), Ghana (limited)

Fees: 2.9% + fixed fee per transaction

Withdrawal: Bank transfer, mobile money (Kenya)

Note: Not fully supported in all African countries

2. Payoneer

Availability: Most African countries

Fees: $3 per withdrawal to local bank

Benefits:

• Receive payments from international clients
• Get paid from platforms like Upwork, Fiverr
• Virtual US bank account

3. Wise (formerly TransferWise)

Availability: Most countries

Fees: Low transparent fees (0.5-2%)

Benefits:

• Multi-currency account
• Competitive exchange rates
• Receive USD, EUR, GBP

4. Cryptocurrency

Options: Bitcoin, USDC, USDT

Platforms: Binance, Luno, Yellow Card

Benefits:

• Fast cross-border transfers
• No intermediary banks

Risks: Volatility (use stablecoins like USDC)

5. Direct Bank Transfer (SWIFT/Wire)

Fees: $15-45 per transfer

Best for: Large payments (over $1,000)

Slow: 3-7 business days

6. Mobile Money (East Africa)

M-Pesa (Kenya), MTN Mobile Money, etc.

For: Local payments or via services that integrate

7. Western Union / MoneyGram

Fees: High (5-10%)

Use only if: No other option available

Pro Tip: Negotiate payment platform with your employer. Some companies cover transfer fees.

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Building a Sustainable Remote Career

Month 1-3: Getting Started

• Set up professional profiles (LinkedIn, portfolio)
• Apply to 5-10 remote jobs per week
• Take free courses to build skills (Coursera, Udemy)
• Join remote work communities
• Start small: Freelance gigs on Upwork/Fiverr to build experience

Month 4-6: Gaining Traction

• Land first remote client/job
• Deliver exceptional work
• Request testimonials and reviews
• Build portfolio with completed projects
• Network with other remote workers

Month 7-12: Scaling Up

• Increase rates as you gain experience
• Specialize in a niche (e.g., fintech content writing, React development)
• Seek long-term contracts over one-off gigs
• Apply to higher-paying opportunities
• Consider multiple income streams (2-3 clients)

Year 2+: Thriving

• Earn $1,500-$5,000+/month
• Work with premium clients
• Possibly start own agency/consultancy
• Mentor others entering remote work
• Achieve financial stability and flexibility

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Success Stories: Africans Thriving in Remote Work

Grace - Content Writer, Ghana

"I started on Fiverr writing blog posts for $10 each. Now, 2 years later, I have 5 steady clients paying $200-500 per article. I earn more remotely than I did at my marketing agency job in Accra, and I work from home in my pajamas!"

Key Takeaway: Start small, deliver quality, and gradually increase rates.

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Chinedu - Software Developer, Nigeria

"After completing a coding bootcamp, I landed a remote job with a US startup at $3,000/month. In Lagos, that's a senior developer salary. The opportunity changed my life. I bought my first car and moved into a better apartment."

Key Takeaway: Invest in skills that are globally in demand.

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Amara - Virtual Assistant, Kenya

"I support 3 executives in the US and UK as their VA. I manage their calendars, emails, and travel. I work from my home in Nairobi and earn KES 150,000/month. Remote work gave me the flexibility to care for my kids and still have a thriving career."

Key Takeaway: Organizational and communication skills are highly valued remotely.

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Conclusion

Remote work is not just a trend—it's the future of work in Africa. With the right skills, tools, and mindset, you can access global opportunities from anywhere on the continent.

Your Action Plan:

1. Assess your skills - What can you offer remotely?
2. Upskill if needed - Free courses, certifications, bootcamps
3. Set up your workspace - Internet, power backup, equipment
4. Create professional profiles - LinkedIn, portfolio, GitHub
5. Start applying - 5-10 applications per week
6. Stay persistent - Rejections are part of the process
7. Deliver exceptional work - Build reputation and referrals

The remote jobs are out there. The question is: Are you ready to seize them?

Ready to start your remote career journey? Use CareerLead AI to:

• Get personalized remote job recommendations
• Access AI-powered CV reviews optimized for remote roles
• Discover in-demand skills to learn
• Connect with African remote workers

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Do I need a degree to get remote jobs?

A: Not always. Many remote roles (especially tech, design, writing) value skills and portfolios over degrees. Certifications and demonstrable experience matter more.

Q: Can I work remotely while living anywhere in Africa?

A: Yes, but internet reliability varies. Urban areas in Ghana, Kenya, Nigeria, South Africa, Rwanda have good connectivity. Rural areas may struggle.

Q: How do I handle time zone differences?

A: Some roles are flexible (async work), others require overlapping hours. Be clear on expectations during the interview. Tools like World Time Buddy help schedule meetings.

Q: Will I pay taxes on remote income?

A: Yes. Remote income is taxable in your country of residence. Consult a tax professional to understand your obligations.

Q: Can I work for multiple clients remotely?

A: Absolutely. Many remote workers juggle 2-5 clients. Ensure you have the time and capacity, and check contracts for non-compete clauses.

Q: What if I have no experience?

A: Start with freelance platforms (Fiverr, Upwork) doing small gigs. Build a portfolio, gather reviews, then apply for bigger opportunities. Consider internships or volunteer remote work to gain experience.

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Sources & References:

• Remote4Africa Job Listings
• Jobgether Remote Jobs Data
• Daily Remote Africa Statistics
• We Work Remotely Platform
• RemoteAfrica.io Career Insights
• Tech In Africa Salary Report