JOHANNESBURG—Waggener Edstrom Communications is expanding its reach in Africa with the addition of several new affiliates.

Communications management consultancy XLR8 will represent WE and its clients in Nigeria; Lift Consulting brings communications, public relations and media relations expertise in Angola; Core Public Relations extends WE’s reach into Namibia; integrated agency Hotwire PRC brings expertise in Botswana, Mozambique and Tanzania; and Corporate Talk Group and Exclamation Marketing provide coverage in Kenya, with extended reach into additional markets including Uganda and Rwanda.

Africa has eight of the world’s 10 fastest growing economies, and “as companies look to engage their customers through storytelling across more channels and markets, the growing importance of the African continent is becoming increasingly obvious,” says Chris Talago, executive vice president and general manager, Waggener Edstrom EMEA. 

The Johannesburg office—launched five years ago—will serve as a hub for clients in the region, including Nissan, SolarCentury and Microsoft.