Home to the world’s youngest population, Africa has enormous potential to shape the future through innovation and technology. Over 60% of the population is under 25 years old. Gaming is emerging as a powerful catalyst for digital inclusion, providing African youth with critical access to the technology and skills they need to succeed in the rapidly evolving digital economy. Notably, the gaming industry generates triple-digit billions of dollars in revenue annually, becoming much more than just a source of entertainment. By bridging the digital divide, gaming opens up economic opportunities for new generations across Africa.
This potential is crucial as Africa faces a severe digital divide – a large gap in digital skills that hampers economic development. According to a study by the International Finance Corporation, by 2030, approximately 230 million jobs across the continent will require digital skills. Games with clear mechanisms to spark curiosity, engage and encourage learning have proven to be a practical solution to the continent’s digital challenges. Through games with educational elements and designed for learning, African youth can gain important skills such as coding, problem solving and critical thinking.
At the same time, gaming fosters inclusivity. The gaming industry contributes to democratizing opportunities for underrepresented talent by empowering local developers and showcasing Africa’s rich cultural heritage. African developers who bring culturally appropriate perspectives not only preserve and promote diversity, but also create content that educates global audiences and fosters intercultural understanding.
Additionally, the economic opportunities that gaming offers African youth are enormous. By developing local game studios, education programs, and entrepreneurial ventures, the gaming industry can stimulate economic growth and job creation. This local ecosystem will empower individuals to create and share content, fostering innovation and deepening inclusivity within the industry.
Mobile gaming is mainstream in Africa, with 95% of gamers using smartphones and tablets, making gaming even more accessible. While high-priced gaming products are out of reach for many, mobile gaming offers affordability and a wide range of options. A recent report by Geopoll and Pan Africa Gaming Group revealed compelling insights, including that 92% of surveyed gamers play on mobile devices, 32% play more than three hours a day, and 62% have purchased games or made in-game purchases in the past. As internet penetration and smartphone adoption increases, access to gaming will continue to expand, positioning the industry for a bright future in Africa.
Beyond individual gaming experiences, online communities and competitions, like those Microsoft fosters through Xbox Game Camp, help young people collaborate and share knowledge. These platforms provide a support network that strengthens creativity and connections. I reached out to Phylis Migwi, Managing Director of Microsoft Kenya, after attending several local events targeted at the gaming community. She told me, “Gaming is more than just entertainment. It’s a powerful platform for learning, collaboration and innovation. Through Xbox Game Camp, we’re helping African youth connect, build critical skills and unlock opportunities in the digital economy.”
The industry’s growth is also supported by collaboration between governments, the private sector and education institutions. Initiatives such as the Digital Foundations Project, with its focus on connectivity and digital training, will be critical in building the infrastructure and skills needed to support the industry’s growth and enable more African youth to benefit from the digital economy.
Games have the potential to promote inclusivity for all, including people with disabilities: games such as Karmzah Run, developed by Ghana’s Leti Arts, feature characters with disabilities, providing a platform for wider representation and engagement.
I love working with Demo Africa, one of LIONS@frica’s key initiatives, which aims to connect African startups to the global ecosystem and is supported by Microsoft. Back in 2012, companies like Nigeria’s Maliyo Games saw this huge opportunity.
In embracing this digital revolution, the gaming industry is creating multiple opportunities in terms of monetization, education and social inclusion – the question is, how can we further leverage this ecosystem to unlock the greater potential of the continent’s youth?
let’s play!
Mbugua Njihia is a venture builder and solutions architect.
