Gaming fever grips Africans

The gaming market in Africa is on an upward trajectory, with expectations to surpass $1 billion by 2024. Barry Louzada, Managing Director of Mettlestate, shed light on the growth potential and emerging opportunities within the gaming industry on the continent during an interview with CNBC Africa. Louzada attributed the surge in the African gaming market to improved access to gaming facilities, particularly online platforms. The proliferation of high-speed internet and the development of mobile games like Wild Rift, Call of Duty, and PUBG Mobile have made gaming more accessible and appealing to Africans. The convenience of playing on mobile devices has democratized the gaming experience and attracted a broader audience. Despite economic uncertainties, African countries have embraced gaming as a form of entertainment and social interaction. The stereotype of gamers as anti-social individuals has been debunked, as gaming fosters a sense of community and connection among players worldwide. Louzada emphasized that gaming offers an escape from daily stressors and provides a platform for self-expression and engagement. African gaming enthusiasts are capitalizing on the burgeoning market by creating localized content tailored to their communities. This trend has opened doors for developers, designers, commentators, and production teams to explore new career pathways within the gaming industry. Companies are recognizing the potential of investing in gaming-related ventures and tapping into the vast pool of talent within the region. South Africa, Nigeria, Ghana, and Kenya have emerged as key players in the African gaming scene, with each country fostering its unique gaming culture. Events like Nikon in Kenya and the establishment of purpose-built eSports centers in Ghana reflect the growing interest and investment in gaming infrastructure across the continent. However, along with the industry's rapid expansion, concerns regarding online abuse and violence, particularly against children and women, have surfaced. Louzada acknowledged the prevalence of such behavior on social media platforms and emphasized the importance of raising awareness and taking action to combat cyberbullying and harassment within the gaming community. Mettlestate's initiative, 'Gamers Against Gender-Based Violence,' aims to address this issue by partnering with organizations like Tears in South Africa to support victims and advocate for a safe gaming environment. By promoting inclusivity and condemning harmful online behavior, the gaming industry seeks to create a welcoming space for all participants. As Africa's gaming market continues to thrive, stakeholders must prioritize responsible gaming practices and foster a culture of respect and solidarity among gamers. By leveraging the opportunities presented by the gaming boom and addressing its challenges head-on, the industry can pave the way for sustainable growth and innovation in the years to come.