PwC Outlines African Entertainment Market Forecasts
New report highlights divergent growth patterns across Nigeria, South Africa, and Kenya media landscapes.
Updated on Oct. 21, 2026 in Africa
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PwC has released a new report detailing projected entertainment and media industry trends across Africa from 2026 to 2030. The analysis examines how Nigeria, South Africa, and Kenya are each navigating distinct paths in digital media adoption.
Why it matters
Understanding these regional projections is essential for stakeholders tracking the rapid evolution of digital platforms and shifting consumer preferences across the continent. These insights illustrate how individual market dynamics, from mobile connectivity to local content demand, are reshaping the industry.
Nigeria's OTT video revenue is set for a 20.4 percent CAGR, while South Africa's traditional TV revenue faces a 3.7 percent decline CAGR. By 2030, South Africa is forecasted to reach 86.8 percent 5G penetration.
The players
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The details
The report finds that Nigeria's gaming sector is expanding to $431 million, supported by telecom partnerships that bundle streaming access. Meanwhile, Kenya's media revenue is driven by high mobile penetration, and South Africa's entertainment remains heavily anchored by local artists who captured 70 percent of streaming demand in 2025.
Timeline
2025 served as the baseline year for current market revenue and adoption metrics.
The forecast period for the African entertainment and media industry covers 2026-2030.
2030 serves as the target year for revenue and technology penetration projections.
Travel Outlook
The report underscores how digital media consumption in Africa is rapidly shifting away from traditional formats toward mobile-first and OTT platforms. This transition mirrors global trends where mature markets like South Africa experience consolidation while emerging markets prioritize connectivity infrastructure.
Travelers and business professionals should note that increased digital connectivity and mobile payment adoption in Kenya and Nigeria will likely simplify local navigation and service access. Visitors to South Africa can expect a market shift toward digital streaming services as traditional television viewership continues its long-term decline.
The takeaway
The report highlights the critical role of local content and mobile connectivity in driving Africa's media growth. Consumers should prepare for increased digital-first services as markets move toward higher 5G penetration and expanded OTT access.
Further reading
Explore more industry insights in the Africa section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by The Guardian Nigeria News - Nigeria and World News.
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