Mandela Day 2025: Giving Back Starts at Home
At Relocation Africa, we believe in the power of collective action, of showing up not just for our clients, but for our communities.
This Mandela Day, our team stepped away from their desks and into the streets of our office neighbourhood, dedicating 67 minutes to a clean-up initiative that went beyond picking up litter. We showed up with energy, purpose, and the shared belief that change starts right where you are.
This year, we found inspiration in Rwanda’s national tradition of Umuganda. A monthly community service day where citizens come together to clean, build, and uplift. Just as Umuganda fosters unity and contribution, Mandela Day asks each of us to serve with heart and humility.
Working side by side, we were reminded that service, unity, and Ubuntu aren’t bound by country.
Pantry with a Purpose: Small Contributions, Big Impact
In preparation for our annual Christmas drive in partnership with Sisters Incorporated, we launched Pantry with a Purpose – a monthly, team-led initiative where each staff member contributes two non-perishable pantry items. These contributions will be added to the company’s overall donation at the end of the year, reinforcing our belief that small, consistent acts can create big change.
Cape Town vs Johannesburg: Evolving Relocation Patterns in SA’s Business Hubs
Traditionally, Johannesburg was South Africa’s undisputed corporate capital, with many relocations geared toward its bustling finance, mining, and commercial sectors. Its infrastructure, international air access, and position as a pan-African business gateway made it the logical choice for companies expanding into Africa.
But the landscape is shifting.
In recent years, Cape Town has rapidly emerged as a serious contender, no longer just a lifestyle destination, but a thriving hub for startups, remote-first teams, green economy ventures, and tech-driven innovation. A growing number of domestic and international companies are choosing the Mother City for its talent pool and quality of life.
This evolution reflects a broader change in how companies and their people approach mobility. It’s no longer just about proximity to head offices or legacy sectors. Factors like hybrid work, employee wellbeing, access to sustainable solutions, and regional flexibility now play a bigger role in relocation decisions.
What does this mean for our clients?
Understanding the strengths, nuances, and costs associated with each city is essential. Whether you’re assigning talent to South Africa for the first time or expanding operations across both cities, knowing where to set up shop and why can make all the difference.
Here’s a closer look at what sets Johannesburg and Cape Town apart, and how each is positioned to meet different strategic needs.
Johannesburg: The Enduring Powerhouse
Johannesburg remains the go-to for finance, mining, telecoms, and major multinationals, offering scale, proximity to HQs, and industry-critical infrastructure.
- Business Trends: Core hub for pan-African operations, corporate headquarters, and investor interest in fintech and logistics.
- Rental Market: A 2-bedroom furnished apartment in Sandton averages R35,000 – R40,000/month, offering more space for less.
- Why Clients Still Favour Johannesburg: Access to corporate networks, superior transport links, and large-scale serviced housing options.
Cape Town: The Rising Star
Once viewed as a lifestyle destination, Cape Town has emerged as a serious player for companies prioritising tech, green economy, creative industries, and remote work setups.
- Business Trends: Growth in SaaS startups, sustainability ventures, and satellite hubs for international firms.
- Rental Market: A 2-bedroom furnished apartment in Sea Point ranges from R32,000 – R55,000/month.
- Why Clients Choose Cape Town: Exceptional quality of life, top-tier international schools, and a growing talent pool that values flexibility and wellness.
What This Means for Mobility:
We’re seeing a shift in internal relocation trends, with talent moving from Johannesburg to Cape Town, driven by hybrid work models and lifestyle preferences. International assignees, meanwhile, still gravitate to Johannesburg for its strategic footprint across Africa.
At Relocation Africa, we offer destination support services in both cities, helping clients make informed decisions that align with their assignees’ needs and their company’s goals.
Global Mobility Insights: Artificial Intelligence & Hybrid Moves
Artificial Intelligence is increasingly being integrated into every stage of the global mobility process. Quietly but powerfully, it is changing how services are planned, delivered, and measured.
Here’s a look at some of the key areas where AI is already making a meaningful impact:
- Cost Forecasting and Predictive Analytics
AI tools analyse real-time data on housing, travel, and immigration to help companies budget more accurately and adjust policies in line with current market conditions. - Hyper-Personalised Employee Support
From housing recommendations to cultural orientation content, AI can tailor relocation journeys based on an assignee’s role, location, and personal preferences. - Automation of Administrative Tasks
Repetitive tasks such as appointment scheduling, housing searches, and immigration form completion can now be automated, improving efficiency and accuracy - Early Risk Detection and Scenario Planning
AI can highlight potential risks such as visa processing delays, political changes, or health concerns, allowing organisations to plan proactively. - Sustainability Tracking
With ESG reporting becoming more important, AI can calculate the carbon footprint of moves and help companies implement more responsible relocation practices. - Real-Time Communication Tools
Smart platforms and multilingual chat support offer 24/7 access to information, improving response times and service accessibility without removing the option for personal guidance.
As much as we integrate AI and recognise its importance, it can never replace the human touch required when relocating to a new country. We recently published an article on why artificial intelligence will never replace our mobility consultants.
Discover the full article here and stay connected with us on LinkedIn
Hybrid Assignments: Redefining the Move
The global mobility landscape is shifting. Traditional long-term family assignments have declined by 16%, as both organisations and assignees move towards more flexible and agile relocation models.
In their place, we’re seeing significant growth in:
- Short-term assignments, up 34.4%
- Locally hired foreigners, up 29.4%
- Project-based roles, up 28%
These moves are often career-focused, skills-driven, or initiated by the assignee, reflecting a more dynamic and responsive approach to mobility.
As a result, hybrid models are gaining traction. More professionals are relocating for just three to six months or commuting periodically between countries and regions. This shift demands flexible housing, on-demand support, and a deep understanding of local infrastructure.
- For global mobility professionals, it means rethinking cost models, compliance strategies, and housing partnerships to keep pace with evolving assignment types.
- For Relocation Africa, it is an opportunity to lead. Our adaptable service structures, regional expertise, and on-the-ground support are built to meet the needs of today’s mobile workforce.
Today’s mobility is less about permanent relocation and more about strategic, agile movement. Hybrid and remote models are gaining traction, and organisations must be ready to support assignees whose needs and timelines look very different from just a few years ago.
Case Study: Managing Housing Expectations in Kenya
Background
A 33-year-old male assignee in the telecommunications industry relocated to Kenya for a long-term assignment. During initial discussions, he expressed concern that the housing options in Nairobi did not match the standard he was accustomed to in Europe.
Challenges
- The assignee had already viewed several properties before engaging with our team and was disappointed with the overall quality and layout.
- There was a clear gap between his expectations and what the local market typically offers.
- It was essential to manage expectations while still delivering a solution that felt tailored and respectful of his preferences.
Solutions
- Our Account Specialist acknowledged the assignee’s concerns and provided context about the local housing market.
- A targeted home search was initiated, focusing on high-quality properties within the top residential areas of Nairobi.
- Our consultant offered guidance on the pros and cons of different neighbourhoods and helped clarify which preferences were needs and which were wants.
- Viewings were streamlined to avoid repetition and focus on viable, high-potential options.
Outcome
The assignee selected a home he was satisfied with and felt supported throughout the process. By addressing expectations early and providing structured, informed guidance, the team helped turn initial concerns into a positive outcome. This case reflects the importance of market education and personalised service in high-assurance relocations.
