According to a new report conducted for Africa games publisher, Carry1st, by the gaming data platform, Newzoo, Africa’s gaming market surpassed $1.8 billion in 2024. This reflects a 12.4% year-on-year (YoY) growth, which is six times higher than the global gaming growth rate of 2.1% YoY.
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Closely examining countries in the region based on forecasts for 2024, the data reveals:
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- Egypt led with $368 million in revenue, followed by
- Nigeria ($300-million), and
- South Africa ($278-million)
- Eritrea and Niger were the fastest-growing countries in gaming revenue, while
- Equatorial Guinea and Seychelles were the slowest-growing
The report highlights that mobile gaming was the primary driver of this growth, accounting for nearly 90% ($1.6 billion) of the market. It is estimated that 32 million new gamers entered Africa’s gaming market in 2024, with the overwhelming majority accessing games through mobile devices.
The research estimates that there are approximately 349 million gamers across Africa, with 304 million of them being mobile gamers. The total number of gamers increased by 32 million from 317 million in 2023, reflecting a 10% year-on-year (YoY) growth.
The latest data represents the first time Carry1st has expanded its analysis to cover the entire African continent, moving beyond its previous focus on sub-Saharan Africa. In 2021, the estimated number of gamers stood at 186 million.
Carry1st CEO and Co-Founder, Cordel Robbin-Coker, comments:
“Building on our previous collaborations with Newzoo, this new data illuminates the explosive growth of Africa’s gaming market.
The dominance of mobile gaming, making up nearly 90% of the market, highlights the distinct path Africa is taking − leapfrogging traditional platforms. With such growth in players and spending, it’s clear that Africa is one of the few places to find secular growth in an industry that is otherwise showing signs of maturity.”
This growth underscores Africa’s transformation from an emerging market to a significant force in the global gaming industry. Fueled by widespread mobile adoption, improved internet access, and innovative payment solutions, Africa’s gaming market is experiencing steady expansion.
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While global markets face slower growth, Africa’s rapid progress highlights the region’s immense potential.
“Africa’s gaming sector is growing rapidly and outpacing global trends, which signals that the continent is catching up and its growth cannot be overlooked.
With a fast-growing mobile online population and 90% of its $1.8-billion market coming from mobile gaming, it’s clear where growth opportunities can be found” said Michiel Buijsman, principal games market analyst of Newzoo.
