Exclusive: Africa Gaming Expo: Elevating Africa’s Gaming Industry to Global Standards
Africa’s gaming and fintech industries are evolving at an unprecedented pace, and at the heart of this transformation is the Africa Gaming Expo (AGE). In this conversation, Charles Ekundayo, CEO of Africa Gaming Expo Limited, shares the vision, challenges, and opportunities driving AGE’s mission to unite industry stakeholders, foster innovation, and create a truly Pan-African platform that will shape the future of gaming on the continent.
iGaming AFRIKA: Could you tell us a little bit about yourself and your journey so far?
Charles Ekundayo: My name is Charles Ekundayo, Chief Executive Officer of Africa Gaming Expo Limited, organisers of Africa Gaming Expo (AGE). My background is in Operations Research and Systems Management. I have worked across diverse disciplines and multiple sectors. I deploy energy to deepen growth and add long-term value to sectors where I have worked. I believe in building platforms that solve real market needs, attract the right practitioners, and generate measurable outcomes. AGE is positioned to do exactly that for the Gaming and Fintech industry in Africa by creating a continental business ecosystem that allows for collaboration and togetherness amongst industry stakeholders. Above all, I am your regular, everyday person who prefers a simple, uncomplicated life.
iGaming AFRIKA: What led you to the gaming industry, and what is it about this field that truly excites and motivates you?
Charles Ekundayo: I got drawn into the gaming industry based on the identified inherent potential and opportunities. The Gaming industry is no doubt a fast-growing sector with huge possibilities. It is exactly the type of environment where smart investors and strategic thinkers should be operating. What excites me most is the technological innovation opportunities that it engenders, think about the effect on the IT sector and game developers, payment systems, etc. The scale of the industry is another reason. Ultimately, the chance to build something that will not only drive revenue but also shape the future of digital entertainment and Fintech on the continent is also a big motivation.
iGaming AFRIKA: The name “AGE Lagos” is quite distinctive. What’s the story behind the brand name?
Charles Ekundayo: We were intentional about creating a Pan-African brand that truly represents Africa. “AGE” is an acronym for Africa Gaming Expo, reflecting its true status as the premier Gaming and Fintech Expo in Africa, thereby fulfilling its mission of uniting the global gaming stakeholders on the continent. “Lagos” on the other hand, is simply the name of the host city, so considering the Pan-African nature of AGE, it is designed to be hosted in various cities across Africa, so conversations about hosting AGE in different African cities going forward are ongoing. AGE Nairobi, AGE Kigali, AGE Dakar or AGE Johannesburg could be possibilities when hosted in those cities. AGE is African; it belongs to Africa; it is put together by Africans and delivered on the continent. It is time we tell the African stories ourselves; no one can tell them better than we can.
iGaming AFRIKA: Congratulations on hosting two successful AGE events! What was the initial spark that inspired you to bring AGE to life?
Charles Ekundayo : Thank you so much. The inspiration behind AGE was to create a Pan-African community, platform or space, so to speak, where global Gaming and Fintech industry leaders, operators, regulators, investors, innovators, test labs, generally, global industry stakeholders could converge to discuss, share knowledge, engage in peer reviews across jurisdictions, cross fertilise ideas, display their inventions, engage in conversations that will shape and further deepen the Gaming and Fintech industry in Africa. It is important to point out that AGE is Africa-centric in concept, with the participation and cooperation of global Gaming stakeholders and leaders. Recognising the lack of such a forum, AGE was born to facilitate meaningful dialogue, showcase technological advancements and innovations, and promote industry’s best practices.
iGaming AFRIKA: When you first envisioned AGE, did you anticipate the level of success and impact it has achieved?
Charles Ekundayo: While we were confident at the onset of the value that AGE would deliver, we are humbled by its overwhelming acceptance and the impact it has had. We appreciate everyone who has been part of this fantastic African success story so far, especially our sponsors and all the regulators who have supported us on this journey. Most importantly, the credit for the success goes to the incredible and tireless AGE team members that I have been privileged to work with. For instance, the 2025 edition attracted 7,000+ attendees over 3 days, 132+ global exhibitors, and 90+ regulators/speakers. This underscores the significance of the Expo on the industry, and the success so far validates our vision. It motivates us to continue to expand our reach and impact, but the logistical toll on our team is better imagined than experienced.
iGaming AFRIKA: Looking ahead, what is the long-term vision and goal for AGE?
Charles Ekundayo: Our long-term goal is to sustain the establishment of AGE as the leading Gaming and Fintech convention on the African continent, a community that sets the bar high on quality and creativity. In addition, AGE is envisioned to aid the development of continental relationships and push policy advocacy that supports the industry’s sustainable growth.
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iGaming AFRIKA: In your opinion, what role do events like AGE play in shaping and advancing the future of the gaming industry in Africa?
Charles Ekundayo: Events like AGE serve as critical catalysts for industry growth. They provide a unified platform for stakeholders to engage in dialogue, share knowledge, and forge partnerships. By bringing together diverse voices from across the continent and beyond, we facilitate the exchange of ideas and best practices that drive innovation and policy development. Such gatherings are essential for aligning efforts and accelerating the maturation of Africa’s gaming industry.
iGaming AFRIKA: What advice would you give to young Africans who are considering a career in the gaming industry?
Charles Ekundayo: The Gaming industry in Africa is one of the fastest-growing sectors, expected to reach a multi-billion-dollar market within a few years. For young Africans looking to build a career in this industry, my advice is that start building relevant skills early, whether in coding, game design, animation, or digital marketing. Leverage online learning platforms like Coursera, Udemy, and industry-specific resources. Importantly, it is important to stay connected with the African gaming community through events like AGE, which provide critical networking and mentorship opportunities. Above all, be persistent, as Africa’s gaming industry is still developing, so pioneers like you have a chance to shape its future.
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