iGaming has emerged as a highly captivating form of entertainment for millions of Africans in recent years. A new report reveals that over 16% of the African population now enjoys online gaming, with the number of gamers experiencing a significant surge over the past five years. If this growth trend continues, Africa is poised to become the world’s fastest-growing gaming market.
Conducted by Carry1st and Newzoo, the report confirms that mobile devices are the preferred gaming platform for over 95% of African gamers. The affordability and portability of smartphones and tablets have made them the go-to choice for an enjoyable gaming experience. Mobile gaming has been pivotal in driving the industry’s remarkable progress. The number of mobile gamers is projected to maintain a compound annual growth rate of 9.4% between 2020 and 2024, accompanied by an increase in real-money gambling in Africa.
South Africa, Ghana, Nigeria, Kenya, and Ethiopia are among the countries with the highest number of gamers in the region. In 2021, South Africa alone generated $290 million in gaming revenue, bolstering its economy. Cordel Robbin-Coker, Co-founder and CEO at Carry1st, expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “Africa is the future of gaming. Thanks to the massive influx of young people coming online and a young and dynamic population, gaming in Africa is exploding. Crucially, this applies not only to people playing games but also those willing to pay as well.”
This report underscores Africa’s position in the global iGaming industry, with the continent poised to claim the most lucrative market. The rapid growth of Africa’s iGaming sector can be attributed to three key factors: a large youth population, the availability of affordable mobile devices, and improved internet connectivity. With its immense potential, the African gaming market has attracted significant interest from foreign operators and investors eager to be part of its thriving landscape.
