The gaming industry in Africa has experienced significant expansion, reaching $1.8 billion in 2024. This growth, as reported by Carry1st and Newzoo, has been fueled by the widespread adoption of mobile gaming across the continent. The latest data indicates that Africa’s gaming market grew six times faster than the global average, with an estimated 32 million new players joining the sector in 2024. The majority of these new gamers accessed games through mobile devices, reinforcing the sector’s rapid transformation.

Africa's Gaming Market Reached $1.8 Billion in 2024

Mobile Gaming Dominates Africa

Mobile gaming has played a central role in driving Africa’s gaming market, accounting for nearly 90% of the total market value, which equates to $1.6 billion. The total number of gamers on the continent reached 349 million in 2024, up from 317 million in the previous year, marking a 10% year-over-year increase. Of this total, approximately 304 million were mobile gamers, highlighting the preference for accessible and cost-effective gaming options.

The rise of mobile gaming in Africa has been supported by increasing smartphone penetration, improved internet connectivity, and innovative payment solutions that make digital transactions more seamless. These factors have contributed to the growing number of gamers and the increasing revenue generated from gaming activities across the continent.

Number of Mobile Broadband Connections per 100 People in Nigeria

Africa’s Gaming Industry Outpaces Global Growth

Africa’s gaming market has expanded at a much faster rate compared to the global gaming industry. While the global market experienced a 2.1% year-over-year increase in 2024, Africa’s gaming sector grew by 12.4% within the same period. This accelerated growth demonstrates the continent’s potential as an emerging player in the gaming industry, distinguishing itself from more mature markets where growth has slowed.

In 2023, projections by Carry1st and Newzoo estimated that sub-Saharan Africa’s gaming market would reach $1 billion in 2024. However, with the latest analysis encompassing the entire continent, the total market size has surpassed earlier expectations. The increased investment in digital infrastructure, rising mobile adoption, and the demand for localized gaming experiences have contributed to this upward trajectory.

African Gaming Market

Leading Markets and Regional Growth Trends

Among African countries, Egypt recorded the highest gaming revenue in 2024, generating $368 million. Nigeria followed with $300 million, while South Africa ranked third with $278 million. The data also identified Eritrea and Niger as the fastest-growing countries in gaming revenue, reflecting the expanding reach of gaming into new markets. Meanwhile, Equatorial Guinea and Seychelles showed slower growth compared to other regions.

The expansion of Africa’s gaming industry is not limited to larger economies, as emerging markets within the continent are also showing strong potential. The availability of affordable smartphones and localized payment solutions has contributed to the steady growth of gaming revenue in various regions.

Mobile Data Traffic Per Smartphone Sub-Saharan Africa

Industry Leaders Highlight Africa’s Market Potential

Industry experts emphasize the distinct path Africa is taking in the global gaming landscape. Carry1st CEO and Co-founder Cordel Robbin-Coker noted that the continent is "leapfrogging traditional platforms," with mobile gaming making up nearly 90% of the market. The steady increase in the number of players and their spending patterns signals Africa as one of the few regions experiencing consistent growth in an otherwise maturing global industry.

Michiel Buijsman, Principal Games Market Analyst at Newzoo, also highlighted the significance of Africa’s gaming expansion, stating that the continent’s rapid growth aligns with global trends and should not be overlooked. With a growing mobile online population and mobile gaming contributing the majority of revenue, the opportunities for continued expansion remain strong.

Money Spent Per Month on Gaming

The Future of Africa’s Gaming Market

Africa’s gaming industry is positioned for further growth, driven by rising smartphone accessibility, improved internet infrastructure, and an increasing interest in gaming among younger populations. As the industry continues to develop, new opportunities for game developers, publishers, and investors are expected to emerge. The shift toward mobile gaming and innovative digital payment solutions will likely continue shaping the market, reinforcing Africa’s role as a key region in the future of gaming.

Source: Carry1st