Countries such as Nigeria, South Africa, and Kenya are making significant strides in the adoption of extended reality (XR) technologies through community-driven initiatives.

With strong community support and strategic partnerships, Africa is poised to emerge as a major player in the global XR industry.

Arome Ibrahim, the executive director of Immersive Tech Africa, has announced a mission to empower 10,000 VR and AR content creators by the year 2030.

Recently, Immersive Tech Africa completed a 10-week hybrid program that successfully trained 100 African youths in XR development skills.

The training culminated in a showcase of innovative virtual and augmented reality projects, highlighting the potential of XR technologies across the continent.

Among the showcased projects were Oladipo Tolu's architectural visualization, Chidinma Ahunanya's awareness initiative on Juvenile Arthritis, and Lawal Opeyemi's wildlife conservation effort utilizing XR.

The curriculum of the training program was designed to accommodate participants with no prior XR skills, gradually advancing them to coding and 3D modeling.

Ibrahim reiterated the organization's commitment to fostering a resilient digital economy in Africa through substantial investments in XR training.

The increasing adoption of XR technologies is creating new avenues for creativity and innovation in various sectors, including education, healthcare, and cultural heritage.

A recent report reveals that 69% of African XR professionals are freelancers or work in startups, contributing to a dynamic local talent ecosystem.

Ibrahim emphasized that XR serves as a transformative tool for enhancing education and preserving cultural heritage in Africa.

The global XR market, valued at $29.26 billion in 2022, is projected to surpass $100 billion by 2026, indicating a robust growth trajectory.