Global game jam, Lagos games week launch Pan-African Jam 2026
Global Game Jam and Lagos Games Week have announced a new partnership to launch Pan-African Jam 2026, with organizers saying Wednesday, April 15, 2026, that the initiative aims to unite game developers across the continent through collaboration and creativity.
The event will serve as an official lead-up to Lagos Games Week, bringing together participants under the theme “Play Without Borders.” Organizers said the jam is designed to foster innovation, strengthen cross-border connections, and highlight Africa’s growing influence in the global game development scene.
The virtual game jam will run from April 24 to May 11, 2026, with winners set to be announced on May 25 after a two-week judging period. The competition features a $2,500 cash prize pool along with additional in-kind rewards.
Developers from across Africa are invited to participate, either as teams or solo creators. While international collaboration is allowed, at least 75 percent of each team must be based on the African continent.
Cross-border collaboration at the forefront
Pan-African Jam 2026 will recognize standout projects across multiple categories, including Overall Winner, Best UEFN Game, Best Tabletop Game, and Best Mobile Game.
In addition to major awards, organizers will spotlight the top game from each participating country as well as a top Inter-African team that best represents cross-border collaboration.
The event will kick off on April 24 with a livestream hosted by the Global Game Jam and Lagos Games Week teams. Additional virtual programming tailored to participants will be announced throughout April.
Building Africa’s game development ecosystem
Participation and submissions will be coordinated through itch.io and Global Game Jam’s Discord platform. The jam is open to developers aged 18 and above, with registration set to open in early April.
Maria Burns Ortiz, Executive Director of Global Game Jam, said the partnership expands opportunities for African developers beyond the traditional jam format. She noted that the collaboration helps amplify talent across the continent and supports long-term ecosystem growth.
Lagos Games Week representative Bukola Akingbade emphasized the importance of experimentation and iteration in game development. She said the initiative encourages creators to prototype, refine ideas, and complete projects—skills essential for the next generation of African game makers.
Pan-African Jam 2026 will be part of the broader Lagos Games Week program, scheduled for June 18 to 19, 2026 at the National Theatre in Lagos, Nigeria. Winning teams will be featured at the event and may have the opportunity to showcase their games in person.
