Rookies shine at Kenya E-Sports Series Nakuru edition

The first leg of the Kenya Esports Series, dubbed the Flamingo Series, lived up to its billing in Nakuru. Upsets and fresh champions were produced in front of a lively crowd at the Old Nakuru Town Hall.

What was expected to be a stage for seasoned players quickly turned into a coming-out party for new faces, with teenagers and first-timers dominating multiple categories.

In the e-Football final, 19-year-old Daniel Kibiwot stole the show with a 6–2 victory over veteran Francis Imbuga. Abraham Odhiambo edged David Owuor 3–2 to clinch the EA FC Open Category title.

The upsets didn’t stop there. In the eFootball Mobile competition, Jacob Deng overcame the experienced Nicodemus Mwendwa 2–1 in a tense final, underscoring the youthful energy sweeping through the event.

The only defending champion to hold her ground was the ever-reliable Hannah Gamer, who retained her EA FC Women’s Category crown after beating Nancy Faulen 4–2.

Speaking after the tournament, Esports Kenya Federation President Ronny Lusigi lauded the emergence of new talent, saying:

“We are very pleased to see the rise of new stars. This proves that talent spreads nationwide, so we are taking the series to the grassroots. Nakuru has set a very strong tone for the next legs.”

All podium finishers have now booked their tickets to the National Finals, slated for December 12, 2025, in Nairobi.

“I knew the pressure was on me to defend my city’s pride,” said Hannah Gamer, adding that she was grateful to the federation for promoting inclusivity and giving girls a platform to compete.

“This is my first major title. I always believed I could do it, even when people overlooked me. Now I’m focused on the national championship.”

“They’ve always encouraged me to showcase my talent. This is just the beginning. I want to represent Kenya at the Olympic Esports Games 2027.”

The next stop for the Kenya Esports Series will be Eldoret for the Rift Series on October 18, where more players will battle to qualify for the national showdown.