E-sports Kenya Federation handed major boost ahead of inaugural 2025 Olympics games

ESKF president Ronny Lusigi (L) alongside NOC-K secretary general Francis Mutuku (R) celebrate major boost for E-sports in Kenya ahead of 2025 Olympics games

E-sports Kenya Federation handed major boost ahead of inaugural 2025 Olympics games

Stephen Awino 15:53 - 18.01.2025

ESKF has been handed a major boost with the National Olympics Committee of Kenya officially recognizing the federation.

In a landmark development for the gaming community, the National Olympic Committee of Kenya (NOC-K) has officially recognized the Kenya Electronic Sports Federation (KESF).

This recognition elevates the status of Esports in Kenya, strengthening its position within the Olympic movement.

In a statement, NOC-K Secretary-General Francis Mutuku affirmed the Committee’s support, stating, “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.”

Mutuku highlighted that the popularity of video gaming among Kenya’s youth presents an opportunity to channel their passion into structured, competitive platforms that adhere to Olympic values.

"Given the popularity of video gaming among our youth, this provides a unique opportunity to channel their passion into healthy competition, especially with IOC’s assurance that the selected games will adhere to Olympic Values.”

The recognition of Esports by NOC-K comes on the heels of the International Olympic Committee’s (IOC) historic decision to integrate Esports into the Olympic games on July 23, 2024.

The unanimous decision paved the way for the inaugural Olympic Esports Games, scheduled to take place in 2025 in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

The move signifies a transformative era for the sport, bridging the gap between traditional athleticism and the digital age.

KESF President Ronny Lusigi lauded the recognition, emphasizing the milestone’s impact on the legitimacy and visibility of Esports in Kenya.

“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 this recognition 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,” said Lusigi.

The inclusion of Esports within the Olympic Movement reflects a broader shift towards embracing digital culture and engaging younger demographics.

With Kenya’s recognition of KESF, the country is poised to make its mark on the global stage, championing the values of innovatio in the rapidly evolving world of Esports.

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