For years, in Africa, gaming was mainly considered as a source of entertainment or tackling boredom. However, in recent years, the industry has seen a shift, with a growing number relying on it as a source of income.
Initially dominated by physical casinos and betting shops, the early gaming scene in many African countries was quite different from what we see today. However, as technology progressed, so did the gaming industry.
As a result, the industry has been on an increasing trend, with revenues expected to surpass Sh129 billion ($1 billion) by the end of the year. The video game market in Africa has shown remarkable growth, having recorded Sh110.96 billion ($862 million) in revenue in 2022.
This growth is fuelled by advancements in mobile technology, widespread internet access, and a youthful population eager to engage in digital entertainment.
With the start of the increasing growth linked to the pandemic period, the industry in Africa has managed to defy global patterns of declining video game activity and continue to expand.
In an environment where opportunities are not easy to come by, the gaming industry has offered a way to improve living standards. According to an accomplished online gamer, Brain Tumi, 24, the sector has opened doors for many young people who were jobless and lacking a means to earn a living. “Once I used to…
To read the full story, originally published in the September 2024 edition of Nairobi Business Monthly, visit Nairobi Business Monthly e-paper, available at https://epaper.nairobibusinessmonthly.com/
