As independent bodies around the world continue to clamour for shorter work hours and better work-life balance, some countries are already implementing these suggestions.
In these countries, majority of the workforce enjoy shorter work hours, less than the globally recognized 40-hour work week.
Recall that some experts have adjudged shorter work hours to play a role in improved national Gross Domestic Product (GDP), with proof that shorter work hours lead to higher productivity.
The International Labour Organisation (ILO), has data to show that several African nations now maintain lower working hours in a week, and have shown increased productivity.
Here are the top 10 African countries that adopt a more balanced approach to work with fewer work hours, and employers encouraging work-life balance and employee welfare.
10. Niger Republic
According to a Vanguard report, Niger is number 10 on this list and 83rd globally, with an average of 39.7 working hours weekly recorded by 70% of the workforce. About 29% of its workforce, however, work above 49 hours weekly.
9. Tanzania
Tanzania has about 72% of its workforce having an average of 39.7 hours weekly, while 28% work extended hours above 49 hours weekly. It is number 9 in Africa and 81st on the global list.
8. Ghana
Nigeria’s neighbour – Ghana – has workweeks that average 38.5 hours, with one-quarter of the workforce working extended hours. Ghana is number 61 on the global list.
7. Comoros
Comoros is 51st globally and 7th in Africa with a weekly average of 37.8 hours, and 13% of the workforce logging above 49 hours a week.
6. Mozambique
Mozambique stays ahead, with a weekly average of 36.4 hours. Approximately 19% of employees work over 49 hours, placing the country in the 35th position globally for shorter work schedules.
5. Democratic Republic of Congo
For the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), the average working hours in a week is 36.3 hours, and only 15% work above 49 hours. This places DRC 5th in Africa and 34th position globally.
4. Madagascar
Madagascar is in 4th position with almost 90% of the workforce logging in a weekly average of 34.5 hours. It makes for a good work-life balance as only 10% exceed 49 hours a week.
