Algeria and Roblox sign training agreement

The Algerian government has signed a preliminary agreement with Roblox, a global platform for creating and hosting online games, to train local developers and help develop the national video game industry. The agreement aims to equip Algerian developers with the skills needed to create games and access the international market as freelancers or entrepreneurs.

Roblox ban lifted with new safeguards

The ban on Roblox in Algeria was initially imposed in September 2025 due to concerns over the protection of minors, but the platform is now allowed to operate with new security measures in place. These include age verification, enhanced parental controls, and an automated moderation system in Arabic. The instant messaging feature will remain disabled until the moderation system is finalized.

Algeria's efforts to grow its video game industry

The agreement with Roblox adds to several initiatives already underway in Algeria to structure the video game industry. These include efforts to support start-ups and promote Algerian cultural heritage through video games. The government sees the video game industry as a growing economic opportunity in the region.

Global and African video game market sizes

According to Sid Ali Zerrouki, the Minister of Post and Telecommunications, the global video game industry generates around $323 billion in revenue, compared to nearly $2.29 billion for the African market. The African video game market is growing at an average annual rate of 12.32%, higher than the global average of 7.5%. Egypt leads the continent with $368 million in revenue, followed by Nigeria and South Africa.

Challenges remain for African developers

However, uncertainties remain about the implementation of the partnership, including the training schedule, funding, the number of developers involved, and the conditions for monetization. Developers will need to transform their projects into economically viable activities, which presents challenges such as self-financing, monetization strategies, and recruitment of talent. Additionally, the lack of adapted infrastructure in several African countries complicates the work of developers, who also struggle to gain visibility on the international scene dominated by established actors in North America, Europe, and Asia.