Accra:MTN Ghana has introduced a game developer contest aimed at fostering local gaming innovation and encouraging Ghanaian developers to create games that reflect the country's culture, heritage, and narratives for a global audience.
According to Ghana News Agency, the initiative is part of MTN Ghana's 30th anniversary celebrations and is designed to nurture local talent, support the development of indigenous games, and provide opportunities for Ghanaian developers to capitalize on the burgeoning gaming industry.
The contest has attracted over 50 entries, with 10 finalists shortlisted in two categories Industry Game Developers and University Student Game Developers. The finalists compete for enticing prizes, including a MacBook Pro for the category winners, a Galaxy Tab for the first runners-up, and an iPhone 17 Air for the second runners-up. Additionally, the top three overall winners will receive mentorship and technical support to enhance their games and prepare them for commercialization.
Mr. Yaw Antwi Boadu, Manager for Video and Gaming at MTN Ghana, stated that the contest aims to promote locally produced games instead of relying heavily on games developed outside the country. He emphasized the growing popularity of gaming among young people and the opportunity it presents for Ghanaian developers to create content that mirrors local experiences and cultural identity.
Mr. Boadu also highlighted the importance of the mentorship and refinement support for the top three winners, which will aid in improving the quality of their products and preparing them for the market. He mentioned that there would be opportunities to host the games on MTN's platform and noted that gaming could extend beyond entertainment, serving as an educational tool to enhance understanding in areas like financial literacy and agriculture.
Ms. Venus Tawiah, Director of Women's Esports at the Esports Association of Ghana and one of the contest judges, praised the initiative as a crucial step towards strengthening Ghana's role in the global gaming industry. She mentioned that the industry presents significant opportunities for Africa, making it crucial for local developers to build their capacity to create games and benefit from the sector's growth.