On the fringes of CANEX WKND 2026, taking place in Lagos, Nigeria, esports and video games are taking centre stage with the opening of a pavilion dedicated specifically to this industry. This first-of-its-kind initiative is accompanied by a high-level panel bringing together industry leaders and stakeholders to discuss the prospects for the sector’s development in Africa. The aim is to transform the continent from a mere consumer into a genuine creator and exporter of video game content.
349 million active players, a market estimated at 1.8 billion US dollars in 2024 and growth six times faster than the global average. Africa’s video game industry has considerable economic potential. It is against this backdrop that CANEX WKND 2026, taking place in Lagos, Nigeria, is hosting a dedicated pavilion for esports and video games for the first time. The initiative aims to transform this digital passion into a fully-fledged industry capable of generating wealth and creating jobs across the continent.
“Esports and gaming are no longer simply forms of entertainment, but are now emerging economic activities with significant potential for entrepreneurship, innovation, employment and trade. Across Africa, we have seen a growing generation of young people taking part in competitive gaming, developing digital content, organising and streaming tournaments, and building communities around esports.”
EMILY MBURU-NDORIA, Director of Trade in Services – AfCFTA – Kenya
Beyond the inauguration of the pavilion, a panel brought together industry stakeholders to assess the future of esports in Africa. Building a structured ecosystem requires addressing major challenges, including governance, regulation, training, investment and professionalisation. In Nigeria, one of the continent’s leading markets, with more than 46.5 million players, the sector is worth 300 million US dollars. However, the ambition goes beyond consumption: Africa aims to create, protect and export its own video games to international markets.
“Our ambition must extend beyond producing talented athletes and attracting international audiences. We must develop African-owned leagues, competitions, brands, media rights and digital products that generate lasting commercial value for the continent.”
EMILY MBURU-NDORIA, Director of Trade in Services – AfCFTA – Kenya
In this undertaking, the AfCFTA aims to play a major role. Its protocols on trade in services, digital trade and intellectual property seek to facilitate exchanges, protect creative works and build an African video game market. However, several challenges remain, including infrastructure, funding, training and regulation. The call from Lagos also highlights the need to promote content that showcases African languages, cultures and identities. By moving from consumers to creators and exporters, Africa is taking control of its digital future, turning video gaming into a new driver of economic growth.
