Kampala, Uganda – Uganda has taken another step in building its digital creative economy with the official launch of the Game Jam 2026 at the Deep Tech Center of Excellence, bringing together developers, creators, policymakers, and global industry players around one goal: growing the country’s gaming ecosystem.
The launch event, organized by the Science, Technology and Innovation Secretariat (STI) in partnership with Tech Anatomy, EDIC, and Arudem, set the tone for what is shaping up to be a pivotal moment for game development in Uganda.
A Global Perspective on African Talent
International speaker Yasmina Boubnider Kazitani highlighted Africa’s growing relevance in the global gaming space, pointing to the continent’s untapped potential and the role of young creators in driving future growth.
She encouraged participants to leverage platforms like the Game Jam to build globally relevant content and emphasized the need for greater inclusion of women in leadership roles within the industry.
Government Backing and Industry Vision
David Gonahasa reaffirmed government commitment to supporting the gaming sector, stating that Uganda has the talent to compete globally, with ongoing efforts to improve infrastructure and access to funding.
He encouraged participants to focus on execution and build tangible products during the Game Jam.
Building Uganda’s Gaming Community
Ronald Kayima described the Game Jam as a unifying platform for Uganda’s gaming community, offering participants a chance to collaborate, build real products, and develop both technical and soft skills.
He noted that initiatives like this are key to nurturing young talent and creating pathways into professional game development.
Creating Culture Around Gaming
Aldrine Arudem emphasized the importance of building a strong gaming culture that connects lifestyle, creativity, and technology, highlighting the role of community and branding in shaping the experience.
Industry Insight: The Opportunity Ahead
Danze Edwin, Gaming and Esports Consultant and Presenter of NBS Game Plus, noted that Uganda is entering a critical phase in its gaming journey.
“What we are seeing here is the foundation of an industry. For a long time, the talent has existed in pockets, but now we are beginning to see structure, collaboration, and intent. That is what builds industries.”
He added that gaming represents a major opportunity across content, esports, and digital exports, calling for consistency and global positioning.
A Launchpad for the Future
The Game Jam 2026 will bring together developers and creatives to build game prototypes, with top projects expected to receive mentorship and support for further development.
The initiative reflects a broader ambition to position Uganda within Africa’s fast-growing gaming industry and unlocks opportunities for young creators.
