The BPO sector in South Africa, particularly in the Western Cape, is attracting top global companies and significantly impacting the economy.
These companies are not only establishing operations in the Western Cape but are also investing in training and upskilling local South Africans to deliver high-quality professional services to clients worldwide.
According to the official website of the South African Government, each offshore BPO job in South Africa brings in R350,000 (US$19,229) in foreign income for the economy. With around 100,000 BPO jobs in the country, the majority, 60,000 of which are in the Western Cape, contribute a total of R35 billion (US$1.9 billion) to the economy.
Mireille Wenger, the Provincial Minister of Finance and Economic Opportunities, noted that the value of talented individuals contributing on the global stage is remarkable. By focusing on skills development and creating meaningful careers, BPO has emerged as a solution to unemployment and a source of opportunities for South Africans.
The Western Cape Government’s economic plan, Growth for Jobs, aims to assist the private sector in expanding and generating new employment opportunities. Through collaboration with stakeholders in the BPO sector, the government seeks to enhance the industry to empower more South Africans, particularly young individuals, to realize their full potential.