Industry overview
Africa’s gaming industry offers strong potential, driven by growing digital adoption, youth-driven innovation, and increasing global interest in mobile-first markets. What was once considered a niche entertainment activity is now a rapidly growing, multi-billion-dollar ecosystem shaping how consumers interact, earn, and express themselves online.
As of 2024, Africa had approximately 350 million gamers, with 92% playing on smartphones, and the industry generated $1.8 billion in revenue. Although still small compared to the global gaming market ($241.1 billion), Africa’s gaming industry in 2024 grew at a rate six times faster (12% year-over-year) than the global rate. Mobile games account for nearly 90% of industry revenue, reflecting the continent’s mobile-first internet access model. The largest gaming economies are Nigeria ($300 million) and South Africa ($278 million), anchored by urban centres like Lagos, Johannesburg and Cape Town. Secondary hubs are emerging in Nairobi and Cairo, as improved infrastructure and youth-led startup ecosystems fuel
