Africa’s gaming industry has experienced exponential growth, reaching a staggering revenue of $1 billion by 2024. According to , mobile games are primarily driving this growth, accounting for nearly 90 percent of the market. The increasing availability of payment systems has made in-app purchases easier, further boosting revenue.

Country-wise gaming revenue breakdown

Mobile gaming reigns supreme in Africa, capturing a large share of the market. The availability of smartphones, combined with affordable network infrastructure, has made games accessible to the public, playing a major role in surging the continent’s revenue.

South Africa ranks first in gaming revenue. It peaked at $115.8 million in 2022 but declined slightly to $111.9 million in 2024. Even so, estimates remain optimistic, with the market expected to grow to $333 million by 2026, driven by mobile gaming and esports.

The Nigerian gaming market has experienced phenomenal growth, increasing from $11 million in 2019 to $60.9 million in 2024. This growth is due to a larger, more tech-savvy, and younger population, which recognises gaming as a major source of happiness.

Egypt’s gaming revenue increased from $31.3 million in 2019 to $54.8 million in 2021, but by 2024, it had declined to $39.1 million. Economic factors and changes in consumer behaviour have contributed to this decline.

Tunisia and Algeria show income fluctuations. Tunisia rose to $15 million in 2021 but fell to $6.8 million in 2024. In Algeria, revenue decreased from $12.5 million in 2021 to $8 million in 2024 due to economic difficulties and changing customer preferences.

Hugo Obi, founder and CEO of Maliyo Games, stated, “The African games industry is surging forward, fuelled by a vibrant community and an unwavering spirit of innovation.”

Top grossing mobile games

Popular games, including Candy Crush, are leading the charge in revenue generation, earning $50 million. Following closely are PUBG Mobile with $40 million, Roblox with $25 million, and Royal Match and Free Fire, each contributing $15 million. Football-themed video games like EA Sports FC and eFootball also made their mark, generating $10 million each.

While mobile gaming dominates, console and PC gaming are making inroads, particularly in Nigeria, South Africa, Morocco, and Algeria. PlayStation and Xbox platforms are regularly gaining traction among the public, signalling a diversification in gaming possibilities across the continent in the coming years.

Esports is emerging as a substantial contributor to Africa’s gaming market, with various tournaments and events drawing large audiences. This competitive gaming sector is expected to be crucial to future revenue growth.

The number of game development studios in Africa has surged, with West Africa leading the charge. Between 2023 and 2024, the region saw its studios increase from 12 to 57. Southern and East Africa also experienced significant growth, reflecting a burgeoning creative industry.

Demographics of game developers

The 2024 Africa Game Developer Survey reveals that 92 percent of respondents are under the age of 34. However, only 12 percent were women, highlighting the need for greater inclusion and diversity.

New collaborations, such as Disney’s Iwájú Rising Chef game, showcase the opportunities for extraordinary businesses in Africa. These new partnerships, valuable expertise initiatives, and community activities across the continent are vital to fostering a vibrant industry environment.

Obi further added, “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.”

Despite the growth of the African gaming industry, challenges still abound in terms of funding and access to international markets. It will require strategic partnerships and government support to address these issues for sustained growth.

Obi concluded, “Despite challenges such as limited funding and access to international markets, the growth of the industry is undeniable. New voices are emerging alongside veterans, creating a dynamic ecosystem supported by talent programmes, community fairs, and regional events.”

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