Best NGOs to Work For in Africa: Salaries, Benefits, and Career Growth
Best NGOs to Work. Non-governmental organizations (NGOs) play the best role in addressing Africa’s most pressing issues—ranging from healthcare and poverty reduction to education, human rights, and humanitarian aid. For job seekers, especially fresh graduates, NGOs offer not only the chance to make a difference but also stable career paths with competitive salaries, international exposure, and growth opportunities.
If you desire a career in the development sector, Africa provides a unique environment where global NGOs, regional organizations, and grassroots groups collaborate to create real impact. This article has explored the top NGOs to work for in Africa in 2025, focusing on their mission, salaries, benefits, recruitment requirements, and career prospects for the rest of your life.
Why Work for an NGO in Africa?
Before we dive into the top organizations, it is important to understand why working for an NGO is attractive:
- Meaningful Work – NGOs tackle issues like poverty, climate change, gender equality, and access to education.
- Competitive Salaries – While not always on par with the corporate sector, many NGOs pay well, especially international organizations.
- Career Growth – NGOs provide structured training, international exposure, and professional development opportunities.
- Visa Sponsorships – Many NGOs sponsor work permits and even provide relocation packages for foreign staff.
- Networking Opportunities – Working with an NGO connects you with global experts, donors, and policymakers.
1. United Nations Development Programme (UNDP)
Headquarters: New York, USA
African Presence: Offices in over 45 African countries
The UNDP is one of the most respected organizations in the development sector. It focuses on poverty eradication, democratic governance, sustainable development, and crisis response.
Why Work Here?
- High salaries (entry-level professionals earn $2,500–$4,000 per month, while senior positions exceed $10,000).
- Comprehensive benefits include pension, health insurance, and paid leave.
- Opportunities to work in multiple countries through UN rotations.
Career Opportunities
- Project Officers
- Governance Specialists
- Humanitarian Program Managers
- Monitoring & Evaluation Officers
2. World Health Organization (WHO)
Headquarters: Geneva, Switzerland
African Presence: Regional office in Brazzaville, Congo + country offices
The WHO plays a critical role in Africa, particularly in public health emergencies such as Ebola, malaria, and most recently COVID-19.
Why Work Here?
- Strong focus on public health and disease prevention.
- Salaries range from $3,000–$8,000 depending on expertise.
- Training and professional development opportunities.
Career Opportunities
- Epidemiologists
- Public Health Specialists
- Communications Experts
- Medical Consultants
3. Oxfam International
Headquarters: Nairobi, Kenya (Pan-African operations)
Focus: Poverty alleviation, gender equality, and humanitarian aid
Oxfam has built a strong reputation for championing social justice and humanitarian causes.
Why Work Here?
- Competitive salaries ($2,000–$6,000 monthly).
- Strong emphasis on gender equity and fair work policies.
- Employee wellness programs and relocation support.
Career Opportunities
- Program Managers
- Advocacy Officers
- Gender and Inclusion Specialists
- Emergency Response Coordinators
4. Médecins Sans Frontières (Doctors Without Borders)
Headquarters: Geneva, Switzerland
African Presence: Active in over 20 countries, including Nigeria, Sudan, and DRC
MSF is known for its emergency medical interventions in conflict zones and disaster-hit areas.
Why Work Here?
- Salaries between $2,500–$7,000, depending on medical specialization.
- Risk allowances and additional hardship benefits.
- Opportunity to work in high-impact humanitarian missions.
Career Opportunities
- Doctors and Nurses
- Logistics Officers
- Mental Health Specialists
- Field Project Coordinators
5. CARE International
Headquarters: Geneva, Switzerland
African Presence: Strong in East, West, and Southern Africa
CARE has been active in Africa since the 1940s, focusing on women’s empowerment, disaster relief, and food security.
Why Work Here?
- Salaries from $2,200–$5,500 per month.
- Strong work-life balance and flexible policies.
- Focus on career development through mentorship programs.
Career Opportunities
- Food Security Specialists
- Livelihood Project Managers
- Advocacy and Policy Experts
- Monitoring & Evaluation Specialists
6. Save the Children International
Headquarters: London, UK
African Presence: Offices in 30+ African countries
Save the Children is one of the largest child-focused NGOs in the world, advocating for education, healthcare, and child protection.
Why Work Here?
- Salaries range from $2,000–$6,500, depending on role and country.
- Child-friendly work policies for staff with families.
- Training in humanitarian and child-focused programming.
Career Opportunities
- Child Protection Specialists
- Education Officers
- Nutrition Experts
- Field Coordinators
7. African Wildlife Foundation (AWF)
Headquarters: Nairobi, Kenya
Focus: Wildlife conservation and sustainable development
For those passionate about conservation, AWF is a top choice. It works to protect Africa’s wildlife and ecosystems while promoting sustainable livelihoods.
Why Work Here?
- Salaries between $1,800–$4,500 per month.
- Travel opportunities across Africa’s iconic conservation areas.
- Staff training in wildlife and conservation management.
Career Opportunities
- Conservation Scientists
- Community Engagement Officers
- Ecotourism Experts
- Policy Analysts
8. International Rescue Committee (IRC)
Headquarters: New York, USA
African Presence: Strong in conflict-affected countries like South Sudan, Somalia, and Ethiopia
The IRC is well-regarded for its emergency relief and refugee support programs.
Why Work Here?
- Salaries from $2,500–$7,500, depending on experience.
- Risk allowance and hardship pay in conflict zones.
- Focus on rapid response and humanitarian innovation.
Career Opportunities
- Refugee Protection Officers
- Health Program Managers
- Field Operations Coordinators
- Human Rights Advocates
9. ActionAid International
Headquarters: Johannesburg, South Africa
Focus: Human rights, social justice, and poverty eradication
ActionAid has a strong African identity and prioritizes grassroots development led by communities.
Why Work Here?
- Salaries between $2,000–$5,000.
- Staff empowerment and leadership training.
- Opportunities for local professionals to take up global roles.
Career Opportunities
- Human Rights Advocates
- Gender Equality Officers
- Community Development Specialists
- Campaign Managers
10. Plan International
Headquarters: Woking, UK
African Presence: 25+ African countries
Plan International is globally recognized for promoting children’s rights and equality for girls.
Why Work Here?
- Salaries between $2,200–$6,000.
- Flexible work arrangements and family-friendly policies.
- Focus on gender equality in all programming.
Career Opportunities
- Education Project Officers
- Gender Specialists
- Humanitarian Coordinators
- Policy and Research Analysts
Skills and Qualifications NGOs in Africa Look For
To maximize your chances of landing a job with these NGOs, here are the most in-demand skills:
- Project Management – NGOs prefer candidates skilled in planning, budgeting, and execution.
- Monitoring & Evaluation (M&E) – Ability to measure project outcomes and impact.
- Technical Expertise – Health, education, environment, or gender equality.
- Communication Skills – Report writing, advocacy, and donor engagement.
- Languages – English and French are highly valuable in Africa.
How to Apply
- Check Official NGO Career Pages – All major NGOs list openings on their websites.
- Use NGO Job Portals – Websites like ReliefWeb, Devex, and Idealist post verified jobs.
- Tailor Your CV – Highlight field experience, technical skills, and previous NGO work.
- Prepare for Competency-Based Interviews – NGOs use scenario-based questions.
- Consider Volunteering or Internships – These often lead to full-time employment.
Final Thoughts
Working for an NGO in Africa offers a fulfilling balance between career growth and social impact. While the salaries may vary, the benefits, international exposure, and meaningful work are unmatched. Whether you aim to work with global giants like the UNDP and WHO or specialized organizations like AWF, there are abundant opportunities for professionals across different fields.
If your goal is to combine passion with purpose while enjoying competitive salaries and growth, these top 10 NGOs to work for in Africa provide the best pathways to achieve that dream.
Related content: Highest paying NGO jobs
For more info, visit:
| NGO Name | Headquarters | Focus Areas | Careers Page |
|---|---|---|---|
| United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) | New York, USA | Poverty eradication, governance, and sustainable development | UNDP Careers |
| World Health Organization (WHO) | Geneva, Switzerland | Global health, disease prevention, and emergency response | WHO Careers |
| Oxfam International | Nairobi, Kenya | Poverty reduction, humanitarian aid, social justice | Oxfam Careers |
| Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) | Geneva, Switzerland | Emergency medical aid, humanitarian health services | MSF Careers |
| CARE International | Geneva, Switzerland | Food security, women’s empowerment, and disaster relief | CARE Careers |
| Save the Children International | London, UK | Child rights, education, health, humanitarian response | Save the Children Careers |
| African Wildlife Foundation (AWF) | Nairobi, Kenya | Wildlife conservation, sustainable development | AWF Careers |
| International Rescue Committee (IRC) | New York, USA | Emergency relief, refugee support, conflict response | IRC Careers |
| ActionAid International | Johannesburg, South Africa | Human rights, gender equality, and social justice | ActionAid Careers |
| Plan International | Woking, UK | Child protection, education, and gender |
