Deloitte, one of the largest professional organisations in the world, is eyeing Africa as a frontier of growth as Africa has become the next growth hub.
“African economies are set to continue growing faster than many developed economies and now it’s a fact we cannot ignore Africa any longer,” said Grant Gelink, Chief executive Southern Africa, Deloitte.
Gelink said economists, consultants, and executives all suggest that the African economy, which had languished during the last two decades of the 20th century, is finally stirring.
“Deloitte will spend a tune of $8 million starting June 2012 to develop the market and skills base in Africa,” said Gelink.
“Transnational companies are moving into Africa and Deloitte offers service to these multinationals hence we foresee our growth in Africa,” he said. Deloitte serves big clients like Debswana, BCL, Anglo American, and De Beers.
He added, “Botswana has been a center of our growth from the period 2000 -2008 and there is a stronger market in Botswana.”
He added that Deloitte is eager to establish its roots for as long as the country exists.
Deloitte provides audit, tax, consulting, and financial advisory services to public and private clients spanning multiple industries. Deloitte has a global connected network of member firms in more than 150 countries.
“Africa’s economies progress, opportunities are opening in sectors such as retailing, telecommunications, banking, infrastructure-related industries, resource-related businesses, and all along the agricultural value chain,” he said.
“We have an ambitious plan to expand its capabilities in Africa to serve clients, hire new talent and develop the initiatives of its professional staff,” said Max Marinelli, country managing partner, Deloitte.
Marinelli said, “Sustainable growth for Botswana and Southern Africa region depends on partnerships and Deloitte is firmly committed to building the relationships that will make lasting impact.”
“We hope that our firm will be able to assist in bridging the gap between the Botswana government and the private sector in some of the challenges that the government is faced with,” he said.
The gap includes insufficient skills in the public sector, streamlining operations, capacity building.
