Masseka Game Studio Secures Funding for Gaming Hub in Senegal
In an exciting development for Africa’s burgeoning video game industry, Masseka Game Studio, led by founder Teddy Kossoko, has secured funding for a groundbreaking Gaming Hub in Senegal. The Embassy of France in Senegal, represented by Cooperation Attaché for Innovation and the Digital Economy Bécue Mathieu, formalised the partnership during the VivaTech event held in Paris, France, on Thursday, June 15. This significant milestone was witnessed by esteemed guests, including Jalil Benabdillah, Vice President of the Occitanie Region, AD’OCC, the DER (Délégation Générale à l’Entreprenariat Rapide des Femmes et des Jeunes – DER/FJ), and prominent media outlets such as Forbes Afrique.
The primary objective of the financing, provided by the Ministère de l’Europe et des Affaires étrangères, is to establish a hybrid project that combines an incubator and a video game production studio in Senegal. This initiative aims to create a vibrant gaming ecosystem and position Senegal as a prominent hub for the industry in West Africa. The project will rapidly train local talents, foster game development, enable efficient distribution and monetization, facilitate data sharing, and encourage innovation within the local industry. The positive impacts of this endeavour are expected to resonate not only within the gaming ecosystem but also beyond it.
The implementation of this visionary project will be realised in collaboration with Julien Herbin, the esteemed founder of Kayfo Game Studio, which is Senegal’s first game development studio. Even before the official signing, numerous companies have expressed their commitment to joining this initiative, fortifying its foundation and increasing its potential for success. Teddy Kossoko extends his heartfelt gratitude to all those who have chosen to embark on this adventure, highlighting their instrumental role in propelling the industry forward.
“Thank you to those who will join this adventure to help us boost this industry. The first activities will officially begin in September, with results expected in January. The success of this initiative will demonstrate to private and public players the extraordinary potential of the gaming market and thus attract more investment. Thanks to Bécue Mathieu for the trust,” Kossoko said.
The Gaming Hub is set to commence its first activities in September, with tangible outcomes anticipated by January. The success of this groundbreaking initiative will serve as a testament to the exceptional potential of the gaming market, attracting further investments from both private and public stakeholders. The trust and support extended by Bécue Mathieu, representing the Embassy of France, play a pivotal role in accelerating the growth of Africa’s gaming industry.
Africa’s video game industry has been gaining momentum in recent years, with a surge in homegrown talent and innovative game development studios. However, the lack of robust infrastructure and investment has posed significant challenges. The financing of the Gaming Hub in Senegal represents a crucial step towards bridging this gap, fostering collaboration, and empowering local developers to unleash their creative potential.
By establishing a comprehensive ecosystem that nurtures talent, facilitates knowledge exchange, and provides essential resources, Masseka Game Studio, in partnership with the Embassy of France and local supporters, is pioneering a transformative era for Senegal’s gaming industry. This initiative is not only a testament to the region’s immense talent but also a beacon of hope for other African nations seeking to harness the economic and cultural benefits of the rapidly expanding global gaming market.
As the Gaming Hub takes shape and begins to make its mark on Senegal’s gaming landscape, industry enthusiasts eagerly await the emergence of innovative games, creative partnerships, and vibrant communities that will shape the future of Africa’s video game industry. With a shared vision and collaborative efforts, the gaming ecosystem in Senegal is poised to flourish, leaving an indelible mark on the African continent and beyond.
