Kenya’s Rony Lusigi elected to Global Esports Federation board

Kenya has secured a major milestone on the global esports stage after Kenya Esports Federation President Rony Lusigi was elected to the board of the Global Esports Federation (GEF), the game’s highest decision-making organ.

Lusigi’s election places Kenya among a select group of nations represented at the top table of global esports governance and further strengthens Africa’s voice in shaping the future of the rapidly growing industry.

Speaking to Citizen Digital, the soft-spoken Lusigi described the achievement as a boost not just for Kenya, but for the continent.

“My election is a big boost for the nation as it demonstrates that we have gained credible recognition at the global stage. For Africa, it’s massive because it adds the number of Africans on the board to two, as I will join vice president Tommy Sithole on the board,” said Lusigi.

He noted that his focus at the GEF board will be on advancing the recognition and growth of esports across Africa, particularly through stronger engagement with governments and policymakers.

“At the board, I am hoping to champion for recognition of esports in most African nations by their governments by providing more engagement between GEF and national administrations. I also look forward to lobbying for major investment into the African esports ecosystem so that we close the gap between Africa and the rest of the world in esports,” he added.

Lusigi also emphasized the importance of collaboration, especially with traditional sports bodies, as a key driver for esports development on the continent.

“Collaboration is the way in bridging the gap. We have to continue collaboration with traditional sports federations and promote esports as an enabler, not a competitor of sports.” he voiced.

The Global Esports Federation brings together national esports federations from across the world and plays a central role in policy direction, development programmes and global competitions.