Comic-Con Africa 2025 closed on Sunday after drawing a record crowd of about 70,000 fans over four days, cementing its place as the continent’s biggest pop culture convention.
The event, held at the Gallagher Convention Centre in Johannesburg, showcased the best of global and African comics, anime, gaming, and cosplay, while featuring appearances from international celebrities and homegrown talent.
Organizers said this year’s turnout surpassed previous editions, highlighting the growing influence of geek and gaming culture across Africa. Fans traveled from across South Africa and neighboring countries to attend the convention, which featured more than 300 exhibitors, gaming tournaments, panel discussions, workshops, and cosplay competitions.
The main attractions included appearances from Hollywood stars, comic book illustrators, and voice actors from globally acclaimed franchises. Panels were packed with discussions on storytelling, character design, and the future of entertainment, while autograph sessions and photo opportunities kept fans engaged. For many, meeting their favorite stars and creators was the highlight of the event.
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Cosplay once again proved to be one of the biggest draws. Thousands of fans arrived in costumes inspired by anime, video games, and blockbuster films. The annual cosplay championship saw participants competing for top honors and a chance to represent South Africa in global contests. Judges praised the creativity and craftsmanship of the competitors, some of whom spent months preparing their outfits.
Gaming was also at the forefront, with esports tournaments pulling in large crowds. Popular titles such as FIFA 25, Call of Duty, and Fortnite featured in high-energy competitions, while indie developers from South Africa and beyond showcased new titles that are expected to make waves in the coming year. Virtual reality (VR) demos and augmented reality (AR) experiences offered fans a glimpse into the future of interactive entertainment.
Beyond pop culture, Comic-Con Africa also focused on inclusivity and representation. Panels highlighted the rise of African content creators in comics, animation, and gaming, with many emphasizing the importance of telling African stories on global platforms. Organizers stressed that the convention is not just about fandom, but also about building a sustainable creative economy on the continent.
“Comic-Con Africa is more than just a celebration of pop culture—it’s a platform for creators to showcase their work and connect with global audiences,” said Carla Massmann, Show Director of Comic-Con Africa. “We’re thrilled to see the level of passion and creativity from fans, and it’s clear that Africa is ready to take its place on the world stage of entertainment.”
Vendors reported brisk sales of comics, collectibles, and merchandise, with some noting that stock sold out before the final day. Local artists said the convention provided a vital opportunity to reach new fans and network with international publishers.
As the curtains fell on the sixth edition, fans and organizers alike described Comic-Con Africa 2025 as the most successful yet, with planning already underway for next year’s event. For South Africa’s pop culture community, the convention reaffirmed its status as a landmark occasion that blends entertainment, creativity, and community spirit.