Naivasha’s Rangers Gaming is fast becoming the heartbeat of Kenya’s eSports revolution, after successfully hosting the FC 26 East Africa Biggest Tournament that brought together 112 players from Kenya, South Sudan, Tanzania and Rwanda.
The event, held in Naivasha over the weekend, showcased the growing popularity of competitive gaming in the region and highlighted Kenya’s rising role in the continent’s fast-growing eSports industry.
The thrilling tournament saw Kenya’s own Trex emerge champion after a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Fox in the Box in the best-of-three final.
Trex walked away with the top prize of Sh90,000 from the total prize pool of Sh280,000, as hundreds of gaming fans watched the electrifying showdown both in person and online.
For Tournament Director and Esports Kenya Federation official Caroline Nyambura, fondly known in the gaming community as Mama Selina, the event was not just about competition but about creating opportunities for young players across East Africa.
“This tournament was a dream come true,” she said with pride.
“We saw incredible talent from across the region, and it proves that eSports is not just entertainment—it’s a career path for many young people. I am passionate about building this platform because I believe gaming can change lives.”
Nyambura expressed deep gratitude to the sponsors who made the event possible, led by Mombasa Cement, Oscar Scartek, Nilesh Gorasia, Dillan Mandalia, Sokev Studio Branding, Simon Seda 3D Entertainments, and Kili Games Tanzania.
“We couldn’t have done it without our partners,” she said. “Their support is a big step forward for Kenyan eSports. I want to thank them sincerely and encourage them to keep believing in our young gamers. Together, we are building a future industry.”
From the sponsors’ side, Nilesh Gorasia of Mombasa Cement emphasized the importance of investing in the growing eSports sector.
“Supporting eSports is about supporting innovation and youth,” he said.
“The gaming industry is a multi-billion-dollar opportunity that Kenya cannot afford to ignore. Events like this give our youth a chance to compete globally and build digital careers.”
Another key partner, Dillan Mandalia of Fulchand & Manek Brothers—the team behind the players’ official jerseys—also expressed his excitement at being part of the movement.
“Seeing the passion and energy from these players was inspiring,” he said. “We are proud to support eSports because it brings young people together in a positive and creative way.”
The top 16 players from the tournament showcased remarkable skill and sportsmanship, led by champion Trex and runner-up Fox in the Box. Others who made the elite cut included Ceaser, Makuer, MCoasty, Prorate, Haruun Haruun, Osumo Craze, Atak, Kora, Lord 7, Shaq, Ahmed 26, Ibrah, Lil Pip, and Wayne—all of whom left their mark on what was described as the most competitive gaming event ever held in East Africa.
With the success of this tournament, Rangers Gaming has cemented its position as a leading force in nurturing and professionalising the eSports scene in Kenya.
The Naivasha-based organization plans to host more regional competitions and training camps in the coming months, aiming to prepare local players for global stages such as the FIFA eWorld Cup and other international championships.
