Teach English in Africa: Best Places & Jobs (2023)

Teach English in Africa

There are several reasons why someone might choose to teach English in Africa:

Make a difference: Teaching English in Africa can be a rewarding and meaningful way to make a difference in the lives of students and the community.
Cultural exchange: Teaching English in Africa can also be an opportunity for cultural exchange and personal growth, as you will have the chance to learn about and immerse yourself in a new culture.
Professional development: Teaching English in Africa can also be a great opportunity for professional development and career advancement.
Adventure and travel: Africa is a diverse and fascinating continent, and teaching English in Africa can be a great way to see and experience different parts of the continent while also making a positive impact.
Competitive salaries: Some countries in Africa may offer competitive salaries and benefits for English teachers, especially if you have a teaching certification and a bachelor's degree.

It's important to do your research and consider factors such as cost of living, safety, and cultural opportunities when deciding whether to teach English in Africa. It can also be helpful to work with an agency or organization that can provide support with visas, housing, and other logistics.

Reasons why English is Taught in Africa

There are several reasons why English is taught in Africa:

Economic and business opportunities: English is the dominant language of international business and trade, so learning English can give individuals in Africa a competitive advantage in the job market and help them access economic and business opportunities.
Education: Many universities and educational institutions in Africa require English proficiency for admission or for certain programs.
Tourism: Africa is a popular tourist destination, and many tourists speak English, so being able to speak English can be beneficial for those working in the tourism industry.
Cultural exchange: Learning English can also facilitate cultural exchange and communication with people from other countries.
Personal and professional development: Learning a second language can also have personal and professional development benefits, such as improving communication skills and cognitive abilities.

In many countries in Africa, English is also used as a lingua franca, or common language, for communication among people who speak different languages. In some cases, it is also used as an official language of government and education.

The best places to Teach English in Africa

There are many great places to teach English in Africa, and the best place for you will depend on your personal preferences and goals. Some popular options include:

South Africa: South Africa is a diverse and modern country with a high demand for English teachers. It is known for its beautiful landscapes, vibrant culture, and strong economy.
Morocco: Morocco is a culturally rich and diverse country, with a growing demand for English teachers. It is known for its beautiful beaches, vibrant markets, and rich history.
Egypt: Egypt is a popular tourist destination with a strong demand for English teachers. It is known for its ancient history and cultural treasures, as well as its beautiful beaches and resorts.
Ghana: Ghana is a friendly and welcoming country with a growing demand for English teachers. It is known for its beautiful beaches, rich culture, and vibrant music and dance scenes.
Tanzania: Tanzania is a diverse and beautiful country with a strong demand for English teachers. It is known for its stunning landscapes, including the Serengeti National Park and Mount Kilimanjaro, as well as its rich cultural heritage.

Other options to consider include Kenya, Uganda, and Senegal. It's important to do your own research and consider factors such as cost of living, safety, and cultural opportunities when deciding where to teach English in Africa.

How to Find an English Teaching Job in Africa

There are several ways to find English teaching jobs in Africa:

Online job search platforms: There are many websites that list English teaching jobs in Africa, such as Indeed, LinkedIn, and Teast.
Language schools: Many language schools in Africa hire English teachers, and they often advertise openings on their own websites or through job search platforms.
Teaching agencies: There are also agencies that specialize in placing English teachers in Africa. These agencies often provide support with visas, housing, and other logistics.
Networking: Networking and getting in touch with other English teachers or schools directly can also be a good way to find teaching opportunities.
On-site job search: It is also possible to find English teaching jobs by traveling to Africa and searching for opportunities in person. This can be a good option for those who are flexible and open to exploring different options.

When looking for an English teaching job in Africa, it's important to do your research and be prepared to meet the requirements of the job, such as having a bachelor's degree and a teaching certification. It can also be helpful to have some familiarity with the culture and language of the country where you will be teaching. Working with an agency or organization that can provide support with visas, housing, and other logistics can also be helpful.