Africa is on track to become a top three market globally for mobile games

• “Global investors are now looking seriously at Africa”
• “Africa has more Internet connected mobile phones than all of the USA, Canada and Mexico combined”

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Pocket Gamer Connects Jordan returns on November 9th and 10th, 2024, offering you a chance to gain insights into the world’s fastest-growing games market, MENA.

As part of our MENA coverage and run-up to the event, we caught up with Pan African Gaming Group (PAGG) chairman, Usiku Games founder and industry veteran Jay Shapiro, to discuss the African games industry and the initiatives being put in place by the PAGG to build and grow the region’s gaming ecosystem.

Tell us a bit about the PAGG and what you’re up to right now?

PAGG is the largest game developer in Africa with nine studios across the continent, aiming to build games in Africa for Africa. The industry is a creative mix of animators, illustrators, writers, and various other professionals. PAGG is creating jobs and believes in Africa becoming a prominent player in the mobile gaming industry globally.

One of their initiatives includes creating social impact games covering important topics like wildlife conservation, health, and education.

How do you decide which studios to include in the initiative and foster collaboration in Africa?

PAGG carefully selects studios for their business models, talent, values, and market potential, aiming to grow together as a collective. Expansion is on the horizon with more studios expected to join in the future.

As an industry veteran and PAGG Chairman, what has been your experience leading this initiative?

Building the gaming industry in Africa comes with its challenges, but it’s an inspiring and fulfilling journey. PAGG is making strides in not only creating entertainment but also promoting social impact and environmental consciousness through their games.