Mobile video games are experiencing rapid growth in Africa, driven by a tech-savvy youth and widespread access to digital technologies. This dynamic sector presents a significant opportunity for innovation, entrepreneurship, and economic development across the continent.

Sonatel, a subsidiary of French telecom group Orange, and Netgem, a digital entertainment solutions provider, announced on Wednesday the launch of Wido Games, West Africa's first cloud gaming platform. The service will be available to Sonatel subscribers later this month.

"With this partnership, we are proud to launch the first Cloud Gaming service in West Africa with a simple promise: a console gaming experience on any device, powered by the strength of our network," said Malick Dary, Sonatel’s Director of Consumer Marketing.

The launch comes amid rapid expansion of digital infrastructure in West Africa, including investment in high-speed technologies, and a booming video game industry. Sonatel, which has invested nearly 263 billion CFA francs ($416 million) in network expansion, continues to seek new ways to meet the growing demand for digital entertainment.

Wido Games represents a major step forward for cloud gaming in Africa, a continent experiencing remarkable growth in mobile gaming. A February 5 study by African game publisher Carry1st and market research firm Newzoo showed Africa’s mobile gaming market reached $1.8 billion in 2024, a 12.4% increase from 2023. This growth rate significantly outpaces the global industry’s 2.1% growth in 2024.

Wido Games will allow players to enjoy console-quality gaming on their smartphones, with PC compatibility planned soon, without the need for expensive gaming equipment. Sonatel’s high-speed network, including 5G coverage, is expected to provide a smooth, lag-free experience.

By Samira Njoya,

Editing by Sèna D. B. de Sodji