Kenya enters into partnership with Italy to grow esports

Esports Kenya president Ronny Lusigi (right) and national esports player Barabara Maush. [ESports Federation of Kenya]

Esports Kenya Federation has signed a three-year deal with Italian Esports Association (ITESPA) as they aim to grow the sport and advance cultural exchange.

The deal was signed at the Camera dei Deputati on the sidelines of the Sport, Giochi Electronici e FIsco La Riforma Conference.

Growing women esports, collaboration on training clinics and joint tournaments, promoting player's health and wellbeing, legal support and using esports to promote cultural exchange between Kenya and Italy have been cited as the pillars of the partnership.

According to Esports Kenya president Ronny Lusigi, the players will be the biggest beneficiaries of the partnership.

"We appreciate the magnanimity shown by ITESPA in joining hands with us to grow esports. Italy is a strong esports nation with marquee esports events such as the eSerie A, VCL RInascimento, Milan Games Week and much more, which we hope to emulate in Kenya," said Lusigi.

"Their commitment to diversity and inclusion, especially growth of women in esports is an area worth emulating. Above all, the players shall be the biggest beneficiaries and the cultural exchange between Kenya and Italy shall be strengthened especially among the youth."

His Italian counterpart Paolo Biaisi was pleased to enter into partnership with one of the best esports nations in the continent.

"Kenya has made a name for itself in the international esports space and is recognised as one of Africa's leading esports nations. We are happy to commence this journey towards development and growth of the game in order to open doors of opportunities for our players and all stakeholders. It is also a key opportunity for cultural exchange as video gaming occupies a central spot in this generation," said Biasi.