The mobile gaming market in Africa is experiencing rapid growth due to the increasing availability of affordable smartphones, widespread mobile internet access, and a growing population of young people with disposable income. According to a report by Africarankings, the African mobile gaming market is estimated to be worth over $1.5 billion by 2023, with the number of mobile gamers projected to exceed 350 million. This report will explore the factors driving the growth of the mobile gaming market in Africa, the key players in the industry, and the challenges that need to be addressed for continued growth.
Factors driving the growth of mobile gaming in Africa
Increasing smartphone adoption: The rapid adoption of smartphones in Africa is a significant driver of the mobile gaming market. According to a report by GSMA, smartphone penetration in sub-Saharan Africa is expected to reach 50% by 2025. As more people have access to affordable smartphones, mobile gaming is becoming more accessible to a wider audience.
Widespread mobile internet access: The increasing availability of mobile internet access in Africa is also driving the growth of the mobile gaming market. According to the same GSMA report, mobile internet penetration in sub-Saharan Africa is expected to reach 39% by 2025. This means that more people can access online gaming platforms and multiplayer games, making mobile gaming a more social activity.
Young population with disposable income: Africa has a young population, with over 60% of the population below the age of 25. This demographic is known to be tech-savvy and has a higher disposable income than previous generations. As a result, they are more likely to spend money on mobile games and in-game purchases.
Challenges facing the mobile gaming market in Africa
Limited payment options: One of the main challenges facing the mobile gaming market in Africa is the limited payment options available. Many mobile gamers in Africa do not have access to credit cards or other forms of electronic payment, making it difficult for them to make in-app purchases.
Poor network coverage: The quality of mobile internet coverage in Africa is still limited in some areas, making it difficult for gamers to play online games or download large game files.
Lack of local content: While there are many mobile games available in Africa, few are developed locally, and many do not feature African themes or characters. This limits the appeal of these games to the African market.
How Carry1st overcomes these challenges
Carry1st's product suite has been specifically designed to address these issues faced by game studios and players across the continent.
Pay1st is an integrated payment tool that aggregates local payment methods across Africa, enabling players from across the continent to make payments with the mobile payment methods of their choice.
The Carry1st Shop is partnered with the largest data providers on the continent to provide players with easy access to online content.
Carry1st is working with local game developers and ecosystem experts to bring a wide range of localized content to African gamers.
Conclusion
The mobile gaming market in Africa is experiencing rapid growth due to the increasing availability of affordable smartphones, widespread mobile internet access, and a growing population of young people with disposable income. The market is projected to be worth over $1.5 billion by 2023, with the number of mobile gamers expected to exceed 350 million.
Looking to tap the rapidly growing African market? Get in touch today.