Xbox is setting its sights on accelerating growth in the African video game industry following the successful conclusion of its 2024 Xbox Game Camp Africa. This two-day hybrid event was held physically in Johannesburg, South Africa; Casablanca, Morocco; and Nairobi, Kenya, drawing together industry experts from Xbox, aspiring game developers, and gaming enthusiasts from across the continent. The camp was designed to foster innovation and collaboration within the African gaming community.
In Nairobi, the event took place at the Microsoft Africa Development Centre, where participants engaged in hands-on workshops covering key aspects of game development. Topics included design, storytelling, brand building, and marketing. This local edition of the camp also featured presentations from various game development studios who pitched their projects for potential support from the Xbox Global Expansion Team.
Among the notable projects showcased were “Tingish” and “Finke Desert Race” by Arkitech Studios. These projects earned recognition at the Fak’ugesi Festival Awards in 2022, marking an African first in video gaming, animation, XR (VR and AR), digital art, and music. This recognition underscores the growing talent and creativity within the African gaming sector.
Temi Afolabi, Xbox Global Expansion Team Lead for Africa and the Middle East, highlighted the significance of the 2024 Xbox Game Camp Africa. Afolabi emphasized that this initiative is more than just a visit to Africa; it represents Xbox’s commitment to immersing itself in the continent’s talent pool and leveraging its industry experience to make a meaningful impact. The goal is to empower individuals and provide them with the tools and knowledge needed to excel in the gaming industry.
The camp also aimed to support talent development, provide necessary resources, and inspire the next generation of African game developers. Irene Githinji, Education Engagements Lead at Microsoft ADC, stressed the importance of skills development and training in the industry. Githinji noted that the Xbox Game Camp offers a valuable opportunity to connect with game developers and design skilling initiatives that will foster industry growth.
The Africa Games Developer Survey reveals that around 63 percent of local game developers have five years or less of development experience, and only 19 percent have secured external investment for their projects. The Xbox Game Camp Africa is poised to address these challenges by nurturing talent and supporting the development of financially viable careers within the African gaming industry.
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