What’s behind the growth of esports in Africa?

The rise of esports as a multi-billion dollar industry has taken the world by storm, captivating audiences and players alike. In Africa, the esports scene is slowly gaining momentum, with companies like Ace Pro Gaming at the forefront of revolutionizing the gaming landscape on the continent. CNBC Africa recently sat down with Davy Kamanzi, Head of Communications and Community Relations at Ace Pro Gaming, to discuss the growth of esports in Africa and the challenges and opportunities that come with it. Kamanzi highlighted the immense interest in esports across Africa, especially among the youth who are avid mobile gamers. With a staggering 91% mobile penetration rate in Kenya alone, the potential for esports in the region is undeniable. The global esports industry has surpassed the $1 billion mark, opening up a world of possibilities for African gamers and stakeholders. One of the key opportunities that esports presents is through competitive gaming, which fosters confidence and skill development at various levels. Ace Pro Gaming is focusing on establishing competitions, particularly at the university level, to attract a wide range of stakeholders and sponsors. By drawing in viewership and corporate partners, the esports industry in Africa can thrive and create a self-sustaining ecosystem. Despite the growth of esports, there are challenges that Africa faces in fully embracing this industry. The cost of high-end gaming consoles like Xbox and PlayStation is prohibitive for many Africans, making mobile gaming a more accessible option. However, there is still a prevailing sentiment that gaming is only for children and not a serious pursuit. Kamanzi emphasized the need for a mindset shift and awareness of the vast opportunities that esports offers, including lucrative careers and mass audience engagement. One of the major hurdles in Africa's esports journey is the lack of funding and awareness among potential stakeholders. Educating the public about the potential of esports and securing financial support are crucial steps in propelling the industry forward. Despite these challenges, companies like Ace Pro Gaming are dedicated to paving the way for esports in Africa. Ace Pro Gaming, founded in 2016, has been on a mission to promote esports in Kenya and beyond. Through initiatives like tech tournaments and leagues, the company has steadily grown its presence and attracted a diverse community of gamers. By cultivating a supportive environment for esports enthusiasts, Ace Pro Gaming is contributing to the overall growth of the gaming industry in Africa. In conclusion, the esports revolution in Africa is on the horizon, with companies like Ace Pro Gaming leading the charge. As awareness and investment in esports continue to grow, Africa has the potential to become a prominent player in the global gaming arena. With a youthful population eager to participate in competitive gaming and a burgeoning mobile market, the future of esports in Africa looks promising.