Breaking Down Barriers: The Games Industry's Misconceptions About Africa

A recent Devcom panel discussion highlighted the need for the games industry to address its biases and misconceptions about Africa's games markets. Moderated by Games Industry Africa co-founder and Starbreeze VP of business development Vic Bassey, the panel featured experts from across the African games industry, including Africa Games Week co-founder and RenderHeads CEO Nick Hall, RocketRide business development manager and IGDA board member Limpho Moeti, and Maliyo Games founder Hugo Obi. The discussion centered on the importance of educating oneself about Africa's markets and promoting African games. Hall emphasized the need to look beyond preconceived notions and stereotypes, pointing out that Africa is home to a vast and diverse population. He encouraged developers to seek out and support African games, and to treat African providers as equals. Moeti added that visibility is a major issue, but that it's not difficult to find information about African games and developers. Obi suggested that events like Africa Games Week can help raise awareness and promote African games. The panelists agreed that follow-up actions are crucial to creating lasting change and that it's essential to celebrate the successes and advancements of the African games industry.