A new report into Africa’s games industry has revealed that 90% of its revenue is generated by mobile games. The survey, which included contributions from 66 studios and 55 indie developers, showed a 42% increase in participation from the previous year. 92% of the participants were under 34 years old.
However, only 12% of respondents were female, highlighting the need for greater inclusivity and diversity within the industry. South Africa is a leading market in revenue, generating over $110 million between 2020 and 2023. This market is projected to grow to $333 million by 2026, driven primarily by mobile gaming and esports.
Nigeria’s gaming market, supported by a young, tech-savvy population and a growing esports scene, generated $249 million in 2021. Kenya also showed significant growth, generating $46 million in the same year with a focus on educational, augmented reality, and virtual reality games. Hugo Obi, founder and CEO of Maliyo Games, organized the survey, saying, “The African games industry is surging forward, fuelled by a vibrant community and an unwavering spirit of innovation.
This year has witnessed remarkable milestones, from record participation in industry events to groundbreaking collaborations such as the Disney Iwájú Rising Chef game.
He added, “Despite challenges such as limited funding and access to international markets, the industry’s momentum is undeniable. New voices are emerging alongside established veterans, creating a dynamic ecosystem supported by talent programs, community meetups, and regional conferences.”
The report underscores the potential for continued growth in Africa’s gaming sector, which is driven by innovation and an expanding mobile gaming and esports market. However, it also points to the critical need for initiatives to foster inclusivity and support female developers in the industry.
Africa is where the action is right now, and operators know it. With a young, tech-savvy population and a growing love for online gambling, the continent is fast becoming the industry’s next big thing. Experts project that the online gambling market in Africa will grow at a compound annual rate of 6.6% between now and 2032.
Mobile games dominate African market
South Africa is leading the pack with an online gambling revenue nearing $829 million annually. Nigeria follows close behind, with a market worth over $2 billion.
Tanzania isn’t far off, with the government backing regulated gambling to keep the industry growing safely. Mobile phones are making online betting easier than ever in Africa. By 2030, nearly 90% of Africans will have a mobile phone, with half being smartphones.
Platforms are designing mobile-friendly interfaces that work even on older devices to tap into this growing market. Football is hugely popular in Africa and drives a lot of sports betting. In Kenya, football is the top choice for sports betting.
Nigeria isn’t far behind, with millions placing wagers on every big match. Operators offer live odds, promotions, and simple interfaces to let fans easily bet on their favorite teams. Successful African operators work with local partners and sponsors to build trust and familiarity with the audience.
Partnerships with local gaming providers and football clubs strengthen their presence. Many African countries, such as South Africa and Tanzania, now have clear gambling regulations, which gives operators a solid foundation for growth. The African gambling market is growing rapidly, and operators are implementing sophisticated strategies to tap into it.
With a deep understanding of the local audience, a mobile-first approach, and an exciting range of betting options, the iGaming industry in Africa has a bright future ahead.
Johannah Lopez is a versatile professional who seamlessly navigates two worlds. By day, she excels as a SaaS freelance writer, crafting informative and persuasive content for tech companies. By night, she showcases her vibrant personality and customer service skills as a part-time bartender. Johannah's ability to blend her writing expertise with her social finesse makes her a well-rounded and engaging storyteller in any setting.
