Science, Technology, Engineering & Mathematics (STEM)
Systems Analyst
IT systems design and optimisation
What this life looks like
You are the translator between business needs and technology solutions. Systems Analysts study how organisations work, identify inefficiencies, and design information systems that make processes faster, more accurate, and more effective. Every organisation that uses technology — which is all of them — needs systems thinkers.
What she actually does
You interview business users to understand their workflows, document current and desired processes, write technical specifications for new or improved systems, evaluate and recommend software solutions, work with developers to implement changes, test systems against requirements, and train staff on new tools. You bridge the gap between people who understand the business and people who write the code.
Where you can work
| Sector | Places in Africa |
|---|---|
| Banks & Financial Services | All major African banks upgrading core banking systems and digital platforms |
| Government | e-Government initiatives: IPPIS Nigeria, Integrated Financial Management Systems, health ministries |
| Healthcare | Helium Health, Fountain HMO, NHIS — hospital information and health management systems |
| IT Consulting | Accenture Africa, BCX, Deloitte Digital — advising organisations on systems transformation |
Why it matters in Africa
African governments and businesses are digitising rapidly — moving from paper-based to digital processes in health, finance, agriculture, and administration. Systems analysts who can guide this transition, understand local contexts, and specify appropriate systems are in high demand across every sector.
Your pathway in
- Study Information Systems, Computer Science, or Business Administration with IT at university
- Develop strong analytical and documentation skills through coursework and real-world practice
- Learn business process modelling tools and techniques such as UML and BPMN
- Gain experience across business functions — understanding the business side is as important as the technical side
- Consider certifications in business analysis such as CBAP (Certified Business Analysis Professional)
Skills you will need
- Business process analysis and documentation
- Requirements gathering and specification writing
- Systems thinking
- Communication and stakeholder management
- Understanding of software development processes
- Data analysis and SQL basics
A woman in this field
Seun Runsewe
Nigeria
Seun is a product strategist who has held critical roles at major African fintech companies including Paystack and OPay, and is currently a Senior Product Manager at Chipper Cash. Her career — which also includes serving as CEO of Switch by Sterling Bank and founding Biamo Money, a savings platform for mothers — represents the heights that systems and product thinking can reach in African technology.
Take your first step
- Learn what business analysis is through free resources on the IIBA website at iiba.org
- Practise documenting a simple process you observe — map how a hospital checks in patients or how a market vendor manages stock
- Study for the ECBA (Entry Certificate in Business Analysis) as your first credential
- Look for internships that combine IT and business functions at banks or consulting firms