CV conventions in Sub-Saharan Africa (English-speaking)
These 22 countries follow broadly the same CV conventions: a photo is optional, date of birth is usually included, 2–3 pages, and referees are listed with contact details. The table below shows where individual countries differ.
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At a glance
| What it is called | Curriculum Vitae |
|---|---|
| Length | 2–3 pages |
| Paper size | A4 |
| Layout | Single column |
| Order | Most recent first |
| Dates | Month and year (e.g. Mar 2023) |
| Photo | Optional |
| Date of birth | Usually included |
| Nationality | Usually included |
| Marital status | Optional |
| Right to work / visa status | Optional |
| References | List two or three referees with contact details |
| Explain gaps longer than | 6 months |
Tips
- Two or three referees with phone and email are usually listed.
- Personal details such as date of birth and nationality are common.
- Professional registrations and NYSC (Nigeria) or internship completion are worth stating.
Countries in this group
| Country | Called | Usual language | Paper | Local differences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Angola | Curriculum Vitae | Portuguese | A4 | |
| Botswana | Curriculum Vitae | English | A4 | |
| Cabo Verde | Curriculum Vitae | Portuguese | A4 | |
| Eritrea | Curriculum Vitae | English | A4 | |
| Ethiopia | Curriculum Vitae | English | A4 | |
| Gambia | Curriculum Vitae | English | A4 | |
| Ghana | Curriculum Vitae | English | A4 | |
| Kenya | Curriculum Vitae | English | A4 | |
| Liberia | Curriculum Vitae | English | A4 | |
| Malawi | Curriculum Vitae | English | A4 | |
| Mauritius | Curriculum Vitae | English | A4 | |
| Mozambique | Curriculum Vitae | Portuguese | A4 | |
| Nigeria | Curriculum Vitae | English | A4 | |
| Rwanda | Curriculum Vitae | English | A4 | |
| Seychelles | Curriculum Vitae | English | A4 | |
| Sierra Leone | Curriculum Vitae | English | A4 | |
| Somalia | Curriculum Vitae | English | A4 | |
| South Sudan | Curriculum Vitae | English | A4 | |
| Tanzania | Curriculum Vitae | English | A4 | |
| Uganda | Curriculum Vitae | English | A4 | |
| Zambia | Curriculum Vitae | English | A4 | |
| Zimbabwe | Curriculum Vitae | English | A4 |
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Guidance checked October 2026. General information for most employers, not legal or immigration advice. A job advert’s own instructions always come first. CV Atlas is not affiliated with any regulator or professional body named.