Dutch research firm Newzoo has conducted a study case on the African gaming universe and is ready to reveal that the economic growth in the Sub-Saharan portion of the continent promises an investment opportunity for the future. According to data and statistics, Sub-Saharan Africa will be able to generate profits of $1 billion in 2024. 

Behind South Africa's Gaming Growth

This market projection comes from attentive analysis in recent years, which has already witnessed how Africa is expanding in the digital segment. In 2022, the continent generated $862.8 million in revenue, which is 8.7% more than the previous year, according to Newzoo's data.

The question at this point is: "What's behind the growth of South Africa in the gaming segment?". Several factors may explain what's happening in the South African gaming market. First, the country is experiencing rapid economic growth, with many core industries developing thanks to huge investments. Another reason to explain the economic growth of the country, especially in gaming and digital technologies, is the population growth. South Africa is one of the fastest-growing regions in the continent, which translates into more people becoming consumers of video and online gaming products. 

Thirdly, the rapid expansion of internet penetration among South Africans facilitates the growth of several online segments, including gambling and sports betting. With more people owning a Smartphone, the country is experiencing unparalleled growth for gaming. The adoption of Smartphones has boosted the country's gaming trends. Market analysts expect that about 87% of the population in the Sub-Saharan region will own a Smartphone by 2030.

South Africa's Race To Lead The Mobile Gaming Market

As said, most of Africa's game growth is due to the adoption of Smartphones. In particular, South Africa is the continent's most prominent video gaming market, with year-over-year sales growth.

The wind of technological innovation blowing on South African society is responsible for a massive enhancement of mobile technology usage. The technological evolution in the country leads to the need for a stable internet connection, such as 5G. The installation of 5G receivers increased the subscriptions for 5G services. Statistics suggest that 5G subscribers may reach 60 million by 2024, thus boosting the online gaming market. Last year, Ericsson, South Africa's largest 5G provider, announced the launch of its gaming chip, MediaTek Helio G95, dedicated to the 4G gaming mobile market. Ericsson is also cooperating with various mobile brands to develop at least ten premium Smartphone models powered by MediaTek Helio G.

South Africa's mobile gaming growth is an inspiration for more African countries, such as Nigeria, which is expected to hold a significant market share by 2024. Nigeria and South Africa are the two leading countries in the continent for internet penetration and mobile services. Other growing regions include North African MENA countries of the Arab world.

Today's Gaming Trends In South Africa

The noteworthy technological growth in South Africa encourages investors and foreign companies to expand. In particular, the iGaming market is currently the most promising segment to focus on. Online sportsbooks are increasing thanks to South Africans' passion for sports. The gap from watching sports events to wagering on them is quite easy to fill in. So, sports betting is on the rise in the country. South African consumers appreciate online sportsbooks' variety of wagering options and convenience at a fingertip.

Today, South African online betting sites and casinos are an established reality that reflects how South African online users are becoming familiar with online gaming experiences rather than traditional land-based gaming. Slots, roulette, and blackjack are the most chosen casino games by South Africans, with slots becoming the most popular game category due to new slot titles related to popular TV movies and shows. This tie-in strategy makes online slots an irresistible experience to try for everyone.

A Gaming And Tech Expo In South Africa

rAge is the newest gaming and tech expo in South Africa. It's back from 8 to 10 December 2023 in Johannesburg. The event will transform the city into a wonderland of video games, technology, e-sports, and all forms of online entertainment.

rAge is the place on Earth where visitors can find the top-best innovations and emerging technologies, including cybersecurity in digital entertainment and gaming. The expo is an excellent occasion to get closer to VR and AR games as well as on-site 3D printing. Visitors can join and watch gaming competitions and try the newest gaming trends. Also, winners will receive giveaways and gifts from the companies and sponsors participating in the expo.