Africa’s gaming industry is poised for a breakthrough. As one of the fastest-growing creative sectors on the continent, game development has the power to drive innovation, create jobs, and bring African storytelling to the global stage.
But to fully unlock this potential, developers need resources, mentorship, and international connections. That’s where GamesConnect AFRICA steps in.
What Is GamesConnect AFRICA?
More than just an initiative, GamesConnect AFRICA is a movement shaping the future of gaming in Africa. It empowers mid-sized studios with the tools to scale, improve game quality, and compete globally. The programme also fosters international collaborations, co-productions, and knowledge-sharing – ensuring African stories take centre stage.
Governments play a key role, and GamesConnect AFRICA is engaging policymakers to secure grants, funding, and supportive policies.
The initiative is also building a pan-African network, connecting developers, investors, and industry leaders to drive collective growth.
Vulane Mthembu, Project Coordinator at Gamebox, Goethe-Institut Johannesburg, highlights its mission:
“GamesConnect AFRICA is dedicated to creating a more connected and sustainable gaming ecosystem across the continent. By fostering collaborations and supporting mid-sized studios, we’re ensuring that African games are not just developed but celebrated. We are working to be present at key gaming events, helping local talent gain international exposure and meaningful opportunities.”
Why It Matters
Despite rapid growth, Africa’s gaming industry faces hurdles: limited funding, market access, and policy gaps.
GamesConnect AFRICA tackles these challenges head-on, offering studios real pathways to scale and succeed.
Safurat Balogun, Head of Information & Library, adds: “The gaming industry in Africa has immense potential, and through initiatives like GamesConnect AFRICA, we are bridging gaps, creating opportunities, and elevating African gaming talent to international levels.”
Where to Find Us in 2025
GamesConnect AFRICA will be at major gaming events worldwide, amplifying African talent. Key stops include:
- Lagos Game Jam (Feb–Mar) – Hybrid (Online + Lagos)
- AMAZE Festival (May) – Supporting an African jury member
- Game Jam+ (May 13–17) – Angola
- Lagos Games Week (June) – Nigeria
- GamesCom (August) – Germany
- Gamathon (September) – Nigeria
- Fak’ugesi (Oct 9–12) – Johannesburg
- FEJA (Nov, TBA) – Abidjan
- Joburg Games Fest (TBA) – Johannesburg
- Africa Games Week (TBA) – Tunisia/Cape Town
- Playtopia (TBA) – Cape Town
- Game Design Workshops (Year-round) – Côte d’Ivoire
- Mentoring with Spielfabrique (Mar–Nov) – Online
The future of African gaming is bright and GamesConnect AFRICA is here to make it shine even brighter.
