Experts in the esports industry in Africa have raised the challenges and opportunities shaping Africa’s esports ecosystem. At the ongoing Africa Gaming Expo (AGE) 2025 in Lagos, panelists underscored the urgent need for infrastructure development, policy support, and corporate partnerships to drive the sector forward.

Moderated by Clésio Dias, Head of the Department of Technological Innovation and Service Modernisation at the Angola Gaming Supervision Institute, the session featured a diverse panel of experts: Ignat Bobrovich (Founder, Passport CG, Esports for Positive Change, Estonia), Kunmi Adenipebi (Founder, Game Evolution Partners), Yahaya Maikori (President, Nigeria Esports Federation), Ekaterina Mayorova (Business Development Manager, Pandascore), and Kwesi Hayford (President, Esports Association of Ghana).

Discussions centered on the infrastructure challenges limiting growth while exploring practical solutions for fostering a sustainable esports environment across the continent.

Broadband access as a game-changer

One of the most pressing concerns raised was the lack of reliable broadband infrastructure. Panelists agreed that without fast and affordable internet, esports participation and audience growth remain restricted. There was a collective call for public and private sector collaboration to expand broadband access, particularly in underserved regions.

Investment in digital infrastructure, they argued, would open new opportunities for African gamers to compete globally while allowing local communities to benefit from the industry’s economic potential.

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Community engagement and talent development

The panel emphasized the importance of grassroots initiatives in fostering talent and building a thriving esports culture. Proposals included equipping community centers with gaming facilities, creating mentorship programs, and incorporating esports into educational curricula to nurture the next generation of professional gamers and content creators.

Additionally, panelists highlighted the need to establish structured training programs that provide players with technical skills while exposing them to career pathways within the esports ecosystem.

CSR and industry collaboration

Betting companies and other corporate players were urged to leverage their CSR initiatives to support esports development. Suggestions included funding local tournaments, offering scholarships for aspiring gamers, and sponsoring digital literacy projects. Such investments, experts noted, would not only strengthen brand reputation but also contribute to youth empowerment and social inclusion.

Panelists also discussed the intersection of esports and gambling, acknowledging the need for clear regulatory boundaries to protect young participants from exploitative practices. Establishing guidelines on ethical engagement was seen as a necessary step toward sustaining industry growth.

The session concluded with a call for action, urging policymakers, investors, and industry stakeholders to prioritise infrastructure investment, community engagement, and regulatory support to unlock the transformative potential of esports in Africa.