Emma Okonji
African Infrastructure Faces Growing Talent Shortage in Construction Sector
As African governments intensify their investments in infrastructure, a recent report from the Project Management Institute (PMI) indicates that the continent is poised to face a staggering 57% talent shortage in construction project management professionals by 2035. This shortage is particularly concerning for a region that is among the fastest-growing in the world.
Surge in Demand for Construction Project Professionals
The demand for construction project professionals across sub-Saharan Africa is projected to rise significantly, from approximately 260,000 in 2025 to over 410,000 by 2035. This increase translates to a shortage of nearly 150,000 skilled professionals. This situation mirrors a global trend, as PMI forecasts a need for an additional 2.5 million construction project managers worldwide by the same year to meet escalating infrastructure demands.
Complexities in the Construction Sector
The report sheds light on some crucial contradictions in the region’s development narrative. Despite being a major contributor to GDP growth and job creation, the construction sector is marred by complexity and inefficiency. PMI reports that around 10% of global project investments are lost annually due to poor management. In a region expending hundreds of billions of dollars on infrastructure, these inefficiencies result in billions in unrealized potential.
The Impact of Poor Project Management
George Assamani, Managing Director of PMI Sub-Saharan Africa, elaborated on these findings, stating that construction is central to the region’s development aspirations. Projects ranging from transportation and energy infrastructure to housing and healthcare are vital for building a sustainable future. However, without effective project management skills, the industry risks facing delays, cost overruns, and ultimately, a loss of value.
Urgency Amid Rapid Infrastructure Development
The urgency for skilled project managers is amplified by the accelerating pace of infrastructure investment throughout sub-Saharan Africa. Rapid population growth, urban expansion, and deeper regional trade integration are driving this demand. PMI research highlights that Ethiopia has the highest projected growth rate for construction project professionals in the world, at an annual rate of 7.8%.
Challenges of Coordination Among Stakeholders
Construction projects involve numerous large stakeholders, such as governments, regulators, contractors, and local communities. Mismatches among these groups frequently lead to inefficiencies and costly rework. Assamani pointed out that the inherent complexity of construction projects combined with poor coordination often results in financial waste and subpar outcomes. Frequent design and scope changes further exacerbate these challenges, leading to project delays and overruns.
Need for Professional Project Management
With considerable public scrutiny on large infrastructure projects, the repercussions of project failures extend beyond just financial losses—they also carry social and political implications. Assamani emphasized that effective project management is essential for safeguarding public funds and ensuring successful infrastructure delivery that meets societal needs.
Infrastructure Development Programs Aim for Long-Term Growth
Amid these challenges, the construction sector in sub-Saharan Africa is entering a pivotal period, underscored by the Program for Infrastructure Development in Africa (PIDA). This continent-wide initiative seeks to address critical infrastructure gaps by 2040 through over 400 prioritized projects in energy, transportation, ICT, and transboundary water systems. With more than $360 billion allocated, PIDA represents not only a pipeline of projects but also a strategy for regional integration and sustainable economic growth. However, the ambitious scale of these projects raises concerns about the capacity to deliver effectively.
Embracing Digitalization to Narrow the Talent Gap
Despite the construction industry’s role in driving GDP growth, it has historically lagged in terms of productivity and technology adaptation. PMI’s recent research identifies digitalization tools like building information modeling (BIM), digital twins, and artificial intelligence as critical technologies to enhance efficiency and minimize waste. Closing the talent gap requires more than just hiring; it necessitates strategic focus on employee retention, development, and career advancement to build a resilient talent pipeline.
