• ESPORTS

• Sportsbeat Correspondent 11 months ago

Kisumu gears up for Makaveli EA football tournament as Esports gains momentum

Kisumu is quickly establishing itself as a rising hub for esports in Kenya, with the city set to host the much-anticipated Makaveli EAFC Tournament on Saturday at Quinten Mall.

The event, which boasts a prize pool of Ksh 30,000, marks a new chapter in the growth and commercialization of competitive gaming in the region.

The tournament, sponsored by Derrick Makaveli, is themed “Inua MaYouth na Esports Mashinani”, a bold statement of intent to empower youth through esports at the grassroots level. Entry to the tournament is Ksh 500, with action kicking off at 10:00 AM.

Winners will take home Ksh 15,000, runners-up Ksh 10,000, and third place Ksh 5,000. Those finishing between 4th and 8th place will receive fully branded Makaveli merchandise, including T-shirts and hoodies.

The event has attracted elite talent from Nairobi, Nakuru, Naivasha, the Coast, and Kakamega, but Kisumu’s finest — including Terminator, Dulo, SeeknDestroy, George, Savage, and Jim — are determined to keep the trophy at home.

Kisumu Esports representative Kevin Wambua confirmed all systems go and promised more action-packed events in future. “We’ve received strong support from partners like Mama Selina and Rangers Esports, and we’re committed to turning Kisumu into a national esports destination,” he said.

Derrick Makaveli, the tournament’s sponsor, emphasized the broader vision. “Esports is no longer just a pastime — it’s a serious career avenue for the youth. Kisumu is full of untapped potential, and our aim is to build the structures needed to commercialize gaming, support talent, and create job opportunities,” Makaveli stated.

With excitement building, the Makaveli EAFC Tournament promises to be more than a game — it’s a movement.