By Ferdinand Steenkamp
South Africa stands at a critical crossroads. With 8.3 million unemployed people as of mid-2024, losing our top tech talent to international markets isn’t just a “brain drain”—it’s a direct threat to our country’s economic future.
The latest State of the Software Developer Nation report by OfferZen paints a stark picture: without bold, data-driven innovation, South African businesses risk irrelevance in a world increasingly defined by intelligence and technology.
As the global demand for tech skills surges, the challenge for local businesses is clear. Retain software developers, adopt data-centric strategies, and compete on a global scale—or fall behind. The stakes couldn’t be higher, and the responsibility lies with all of us—business leaders, policymakers and innovators alike.
South Africa’s developer workforce is world-class. But our failure to modernise policies and invest in data infrastructure risks driving this talent away. This isn’t a hypothetical concern—it’s a looming disaster.
Data-driven innovation has the potential to unlock immense value across industries, particularly in retail, where insights into customer behaviour, supply chain optimization, and inventory management are vital. Yet, without skilled developers to build these solutions, South Africa will miss the opportunities of the intelligence age.
The State of the Software Developer Nation report highlights the shifting priorities of tech professionals. Developers increasingly value remote working flexibility, with 64% stating they’d leave their jobs if forced back into the office. Combine this with weak salary growth and limited career development opportunities, and it’s no wonder that many are seeking opportunities abroad.
Businesses must heed this warning. Flexible work, competitive compensation, and clear career growth pathways are no longer optional—they are essential. This is not just about meeting employee expectations; it’s about survival in a fiercely competitive global talent market.
Take Shoprite as an example of what’s possible when businesses embrace data-driven strategies. Through its in-house data consultancy, ShopriteX, the retail giant uses artificial intelligence to enhance customer loyalty and drive profitability. By leveraging dynamic pricing and personalized shopping experiences, Shoprite has set itself apart, earning a top spot in the 2023/24 Loyalty Whitepaper. Their success underscores a fundamental truth: companies that integrate data into every step of their operations gain a competitive edge.
But unfortunately, many South African businesses lag behind in data adoption. This inertia leaves them vulnerable in a global economy increasingly powered by data. The intelligence age waits for no one. If we don’t adapt now, the opportunity to compete—both locally and internationally—may slip through our fingers.
The power of data extends beyond profit. It equips businesses with the insights to anticipate trends, respond to market shifts, and optimize operations. Companies that invest in robust data systems can weather economic challenges, cut costs, and build resilience. This isn’t a passing trend—it’s a survival strategy.
To address this looming crisis, we must foster an environment that attracts and retains top talent while embedding data-driven innovation into every level of business. South African developers are in high demand worldwide. To keep them, we must create workplaces that enable growth, flexibility, and long-term career opportunities.
The OfferZen report is a wake-up call, not just for the tech sector but for every industry. It’s time for a collective effort to pursue digital transformation and cultivate an ecosystem where developers and businesses can thrive together.
Ferdinand Steenkamp is the Co-Founder of Tregter.
BUSINESS REPORT