Kenya’s Jiwe IO and Blackhards partnership boosts local game developers
The collaboration provides playtesting, crowdfunding and promotional tools to help African indie games reach new heights.
Kenya.- In a major boost for Africa’s gaming ecosystem, Kenyan companies Jiwe IO and Blackhards have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to strengthen pathways for independent game developers across the continent.
Jiwe IO, a leading platform and studio, provides developers with tools, crowdfunding and community initiatives, while Blackhards brings creative expertise to help indie games reach wider audiences and unlock new opportunities for local talent.
Jiwe IO said: “This partnership brings together Jiwe IO’s community‑driven platform and Blackhards’ creative studio expertise to amplify the reach of innovative African game projects.”
Beyond technical and promotional support, the collaboration also seeks to nurture a space where African creativity can flourish. Jiwe IO added: “Together, we are advancing our shared mission: to create spaces where African stories, creativity and innovation in gaming can thrive.”
Next‑gen African games
The deal comes at a time when Africa’s gaming industry is experiencing rapid growth. According to a recent analysis, Africa’s gaming market generated around $1.8bn in 2024, with mobile gaming accounting for around 90 per cent of revenue.
By fostering stronger support networks for indie developers, the partnership could play a pivotal role in shaping the next generation of African games and creators.
With structured playtesting, funding support and community engagement at its core, this MoU sets a new standard for collaborative efforts in Africa’s indie gaming sector, demonstrating how partnerships can empower local talent while telling uniquely African stories to the world.
