The Joystick Revolution: Tracing the Rise of E-Sports in Africa
In recent years, E-Sports has evolved from a niche hobby into a global phenomenon, and Africa is no exception.
This article explores the landscape of the rise of E-Sports in Africa (especially within our Rainbow Nation), examining the key factors driving its growth, the major players, and the unique challenges and opportunities within this burgeoning sector.
The Foundations of African E-Sports
The growth of E-Sports in Africa is underpinned by rapid technological advancements and increased internet accessibility.
According to a report by the International Telecommunication Union, internet penetration in Africa surged from 2.1% in 2005 to around 28.2% by the end of 2019. This digital expansion has provided a fertile ground for the E-Sports ecosystem to flourish.
Gone are the days of waiting for your Netflix to load. Nowadays you can game online at the speed of light almost anywhere in South Africa without having to break the bank.
Key Players and Regions
South Africa, Nigeria, and Kenya have emerged as hotspots in the African E-Sports scene.
South Africa, in particular, has seen significant growth, with numerous events including two separate Comic-Con’s and the massive rAge expo taking place yearly, it’s safe to say that we Mzansi citizens love a good gaming sesh’.
Nigeria’s gaming culture is also thriving, supported by events like the Lagos E-Sports Forum (LESF) and the Nigeria Esports Federation.
Kenya is not far behind, with entities like the Nairobi Comic Con (Naiccon) incorporating E-Sports tournaments.
E-Sports Infrastructure and Investments
Investment in E-Sports infrastructure is a critical factor in its growth.
Companies like MultiChoice, through its online platform DStv Now, have started streaming E-Sports content, bringing it to a wider audience. Additionally, the launch of the African E-Sports Championship (AEC) has provided a continental platform for players to compete and showcase their skills.
Cultural Impact and Integration
E-sports is slowly becoming part of the cultural fabric in many African countries.
This integration is evident in the increasing number of local gaming teams, the inclusion and demand for game servers in Southern Africa, and the rising popularity of mobile gaming, given the widespread use of smartphones on the continent.
Yes, mobile gaming does count.
Challenges to Overcome
Despite its growth, the African E-Sports scene faces challenges.
These include limited access to high-speed internet in rural areas, high costs of gaming equipment, and a general lack of awareness and understanding of E-Sports as a legitimate career path.
The involvement of corporations also needs to improve before the industry begins to take off.
The Future of E-Sports in Africa
The future of E-Sports in Africa appears bright.
Initiatives like the Digital Literacy Campaigns aim to increase accessibility and understanding of digital platforms. There’s also a growing interest in developing local gaming content that resonates with African audiences, which could further fuel the growth of the E-Sports sector.
Schools are also looking to include E-sports as legitimate, extracurricular activities for their pupils.
A New Era of Digital Entertainment
The rise of E-Sports in Africa marks the beginning of a new era in digital entertainment on the continent.
As technological infrastructure improves and cultural acceptance grows, E-Sports in Africa has the potential to become a major player in the global E-Sports arena. This digital transformation presents a unique opportunity for African youth to engage in a new form of entertainment and competition, carving out a space for Africa on the global E-Sports stage.
