Dala Khona 2026: Building the Future of African Play
Hosted by Max Musau
Sep 22, 2026 - Oct 8, 2026
Dala Khona is the dedicated gaming arcade at the 13th Fak’ugesi African Digital Innovation Festival. This year, under the theme African Imaginaries, we are transforming the Tshimologong Digital Innovation Precinct into a living laboratory of African digital culture. We aren't just exhibiting games—we are building the systems that allow African ideas to move from possibility to practice. The Opportunity:Jiwe IO is partnering with the Fak’ugesi Festival to power the Dala Corner showcase. We are inviting African game developers and studios to submit projects that define the multiplayer and social landscape of the continent.Whether you are building competitive e-sports titles, cooperative adventures, party games, or experimental multiplayer prototypes, we want your work to be visible, playable, and public. What We Are Looking For: We are focused on games that bring people together. Your project is eligible if it: Focuses on Multiplayer/Social play: Including local, online, competitive, cooperative, or experimental social experiences. Is in any development stage: Prototypes, vertical slices, alpha/beta, and works-in-progress are welcome, provided they are stable enough for a live public environment. Represents African Innovation: We are looking for the unique voices, styles, and stories shaping the African gaming ecosystem. What Selected Developers Receive:Physical Showcase Position: A featured station at the Dala Corner Arcade at Tshimologong (October 13–17, 2026). Audience Engagement: Direct playtesting and feedback from festival attendees, industry professionals, and researchers. Award Eligibility: All showcase participants are eligible for the Jiwe IO Multiplayer Prototype of the Year award, featuring a US$200 development grant and continued platform visibility. Ecosystem Access: Connection to the wider Fak’ugesi community of technologists, artists, and innovators. Key Dates:Submission Deadline: October 2, 2026 Selection & Setup: October 8–13, 2026 Festival Showcase: October 14–17, 2026 Ready to build? Submit your project below to be considered for a physical showcase position. There is no submission fee. Let’s show the world what the continent is building.
