• ESPORTS

• Sportsbeat Correspondent 1 year ago

Kenya’s Esports journey gains Olympic momentum with NOC-K backing

In a landmark moment for Kenya's sports landscape, the National Olympic Committee of Kenya (NOC-K) has officially recognized the Kenya Esports Federation (KESF).

This milestone not only solidifies Esports' legitimacy in the country but also sets the stage for Kenya's participation in the inaugural Olympic Esports Games in 2025, to be held in Saudi Arabia.

Speaking during a meeting at NOC-K’s headquarters in Westlands, Nairobi, Secretary-General Francis Mutuku emphasized the significance of this recognition.

“NOC-K welcomes Esports to the Olympic Family in Kenya and commits to working together with the federation to place athletes at the center, ensuring a strong showing at the Olympic Esports Games 2025 in Saudi Arabia. The popularity of video gaming among our youth presents a unique opportunity to channel their passion into healthy competition, adhering to Olympic values,” he said.

The recognition comes on the heels of the Kenya Esports Federation’s affiliation with its international federations, including the Global Esports Federation (GEF). This alignment with global governing bodies underscores KESF’s commitment to developing the sport locally and internationally.

Ronny Lusigi, the president of KESF, expressed his gratitude for NOC-K's recognition. “The Olympic Esports Games is the best gift Esports could have asked for. This recognition significantly boosts the profile and legitimacy of our emerging sport. We appreciate NOC-K for their support and believe we can collaboratively prepare Kenya for an excellent performance at the inaugural Olympic Esports Games. Additionally, we look forward to participating in other NOC-K programs that focus on athlete empowerment and capacity building for administrators,” he noted.

The inclusion of Esports in the Olympic Movement marks a transformative era for the sport. On July 23, 2024, the International Olympic Committee (IOC) officially embraced Esports, following a unanimous decision during an IOC session. This was preceded by the successful Olympic Esports Week in 2023, which featured forums, exhibition matches, and the finals of the Olympic Esports Series. These events served as a testing ground for integrating Esports within the Olympic framework, addressing governance challenges and ensuring alignment with the values of Olympism.

Despite its rapid growth, Esports has faced scrutiny regarding its governance structure, often dominated by private game publishers, and concerns over violent content in certain games. However, the IOC has assured that selected games for the Olympic Esports Games will adhere to Olympic values, focusing on fair play, inclusivity, and non-violence.

Tommy Sithole, Vice President of the Global Esports Federation and President of the Africa Esports Development Federation, lauded the recognition as a critical step forward. “We at the Global Esports Federation are excited for the development of Esports in Kenya with the coming together of the Esports Kenya Federation and NOC-K. An early start to the inaugural Olympic Esports Games is a commendable move that highlights being future-ready,” he stated.

The Kenya Esports Federation’s robust structure, which includes 29 county associations, has been instrumental in its rapid development. This solid foundation, combined with the enthusiasm of young administrators, positions Kenya as a strong contender on the global Esports stage.

As Kenya looks ahead to the Olympic Esports Games in Saudi Arabia, the nation has an opportunity to not only compete but also showcase the immense potential of its digital athletes. With the support of NOC-K and global Esports bodies, this burgeoning sport is poised to make a lasting impact on Kenya’s sporting history.