• Demand for developers rises globally, driven by digital transformation
• Salaries and opportunities expand, including remote work for African talent
• Training options multiply across Africa, from universities to bootcamps

Code has become the backbone of the modern economy. From mobile apps to intelligent systems, nearly every digital innovation depends on developers, and demand for these skills remains strong worldwide.

In France, the 2024 KYU Associates barometer reports a 55% increase in tech workforce over the past decade. Hiring pressures continue to intensify, with job postings rising 20% between the first half of 2023 and the same period in 2024. Globally, the shortage of skilled developers is even more pronounced.

Developers design, build, test, and maintain software, applications, and information systems. According to APEC, they may specialize in front-end development for user interfaces, back-end for server logic and data flows, or adopt a full-stack profile that combines both. Emerging fields such as artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, cloud computing, and data science are expanding rapidly.

Opportunities continue to grow. The KYU 2024 barometer shows that programming and IT consulting account for three-quarters of jobs in the digital sector. Developers work across startups, NGOs, government institutions, consulting firms, and multinational companies. Remote work and freelancing have become standard.

APEC’s 2025 salary study, covering 111 professions, indicates that developers in France earn between €34,000 and €53,000 annually, with a median of €43,000. In the United States, data from Career Karma shows that developers at Google often earn more than $180,000, including salary, bonuses, and stock.

In Africa, developer salaries are rising alongside the growth of tech ecosystems, particularly in Kenya, Morocco, Côte d’Ivoire, and Senegal. According to Glassdoor, entry-level developers in Côte d’Ivoire earn between $4,200 and $9,500 per year on average. Those working remotely for European companies often earn significantly more.

How to become a developer in Africa

Across Africa, several institutions are helping build digital skills. In Burkina Faso, the International Institute for Water and Environmental Engineering (2iE) has offered engineering programs since September 2024 that include software development, data, and emerging technologies. In Senegal, the École Supérieure Polytechnique at Cheikh Anta Diop University provides training in computer engineering and digital systems.

The École Supérieure Multinationale des Télécommunications (ESMT), also based in Dakar, offers programs in networks, telecommunications, and digital technologies. Founded in 1981 by seven West African countries, it aims to train engineers and experts to meet regional technology needs.

For faster pathways, bootcamps are gaining traction. GOMYCODE, present in more than ten African countries, offers a hybrid model combining online and in-person learning, with over 70% of graduates finding jobs through its partner network.

Andela connects African developers with global companies, while Moringa School trains talent in Kenya. Since 2024, the 42 network has opened a campus in Madagascar, reflecting the rise of innovative learning models.

Low-cost and free programs are also expanding. Simplon trains web and mobile developers across the continent. The OIF’s D-CLIC program provides free certifications in development and cybersecurity. Orange Campus Africa offers access to online university courses across its network.

Wherever there is internet access, learning to code is within reach. Platforms like Coursera, edX, and OpenClassrooms offer structured learning paths from beginner to advanced levels. Python, which has led the TIOBE index since 2024, remains a strong entry point. With discipline, a self-taught learner can build a portfolio within 12 to 18 months and start securing freelance work.

Félicien Houindo Lokossou