The gaming community in Kenya has witnessed a monumental rise over the past few years, and this growth was exemplified at the highly anticipated Kenya University Esports Rankings (KUER) Finals, which took place on April 5th and 6th, 2025, at KCA University. The event attracted university students, esports enthusiasts, and top-tier players from across the country, who came together to showcase their competitive spirit and passion for gaming. The finals featured a variety of esports titles, including FC 25, eFootball Mobile, PUBG Mobile, Tekken Open, Player Unknown Battle Ground (PUBG) Mobile and Call of Duty Mobile, and was a spectacle that highlighted both the skill of the players and the increasing recognition of gaming as a legitimate competitive sport in Kenya.
The event featured intense competition across several popular gaming titles, each with its unique format and challenges. The participants included universities from across Kenya, including Zetech University, Dedan Kimathi University of Technology, University of Eldoret, Egerton University, Strathmore University, University of Nairobi, and United States International University (USIU). These institutions brought their A-game, with their best players competing fiercely for the grand prize.
Figure 1 Zetech University FC25 team
The FC 25 competition was one of the most eagerly anticipated events of the weekend. Played in a single-elimination format, the tension was high as each match could potentially be the last. USIU emerged victorious in this competition, taking home the trophy after a series of highly competitive and dramatic matches. Their skill, combined with well-coordinated team strategies, propelled them to the top spot in this fierce competition. The single-elimination format ensured that every match had high stakes, making each round a nerve-wracking experience for both players and spectators.
Figure 2 FC25 women category
In the eFootball Mobile competition, KCA University took the trophy home, much to the delight of the home crowd. The tournament showcased a high level of technical skill and strategic gameplay as players battled it out in this virtual football showdown. KCA’s victory was particularly sweet as they managed to secure the title on their home turf, cementing their reputation as one of the leading universities in Kenya’s esports scene.
Call of Duty Mobile: USIU Takes the Lead in Multiplayer and Battle Royale
Figure 3 The USIU team playing CODM and receiving Award
When it came to Call of Duty Mobile, USIU proved once again that they are a force to be reckoned with, taking the trophy home in the multiplayer category. Their seamless teamwork and expert gunplay helped them overcome their opponents, leaving little room for other teams to catch up. KCA University proved to be formidable opponents, securing the runner-up position in the multiplayer category.
However, the Battle Royale mode in Call of Duty Mobile proved to be even more exciting, with intense action-packed rounds that had players constantly on their toes. The competition saw strategic plays and well-timed decisions that kept the audience on the edge of their seats. USIU’s performance in the Battle Royale category earned them another trophy, further establishing their dominance in the competition.
Figure 4 CODM battle between USIU and KCA University teams
In the PUBG Mobile tournament, the competition was equally fierce, with players showing off their strategic thinking and teamwork in the intense survival battle. The total prize pool of 24,000 Kenyan shillings was a major incentive for players, who had to rely not only on their skills in combat but also their ability to outlast opponents in a highly unpredictable environment. The PUBG Mobile tournament was a true test of survival, with the best teams ultimately emerging victorious after hours of tense gameplay.
The Tekken Open brought out some of the most exciting gameplay moments of the weekend, with players showcasing precision, strategy, and agility in the 1v1 combat format. This tournament, with a 12,000 Kenyan shilling prize pool, saw intense matchups, with local gaming icons attending the event, adding an additional level of excitement to the competition.
One of the highlights of the KUER Finals was the presence of prominent figures in Kenya’s gaming community. Blackninja_411, Kabaka_mwangi, Sirozai, and Nick Ogada were in attendance, offering their support to the players and sharing their insights on the evolution of esports in the region. Their participation helped elevate the event’s credibility, and their presence was an inspiration for the many aspiring gamers in attendance.
These iconic figures were not only there to watch the competition unfold but also interacted with fans, sharing their experiences and knowledge about the gaming world. Their involvement underscored the growth of esports in Kenya and the importance of mentorship in fostering the next generation of gamers.
The prize pools for the KUER Finals were impressive, amounting to a total of 12,600 Kenyan shillings across the various competitions. The breakdown of the prize pool saw a variety of categories, each with a specific prize for the winners:
- COD Mobile Multiplayer: 30,000 KES
- PUBG Mobile: 24,000 KES
- COD Mobile Battle Royale: 24,000 KES
- FC 25 2v2: 20,000 KES
- FC 25 Women 1v1: 12,000 KES
- eFootball Mobile: 12,000 KES
- Tekken Open: 12,000 KES
- Tekken Women: 12,000 KES
The players’ investment in high-quality gaming devices was evident throughout the event. Many participants had upgraded their hardware, which played a crucial role in their performance. The right equipment gave some players an edge, particularly in games requiring high precision and fast reflexes, like E-football and call of duty mobile Mobile.
The KUER Finals were skillfully organized by Sharley alias czy.darkwillow, a renowned figure in the Kenyan gaming community. Known for her passion for gaming, Sharley’s leadership helped ensure that the event ran smoothly, with the players and fans experiencing an unforgettable weekend. As one of the few women organizers in the esports space, Sharley’s work continues to inspire and pave the way for future female leaders in gaming.
As the KUER Finals came to a close, the excitement didn’t stop there. The event manager shared that the next season of the league is expected to start later in the year, promising even more thrilling competition and new opportunities for players to showcase their skills. With the increasing popularity of esports in Kenya, the future of KUER looks bright, and players are eager to prepare for the upcoming season.
The KUER Finals 2025 was more than just a tournament; it was a celebration of Kenya’s growing esports scene. From the fierce competitions across various games to the presence of gaming icons and a well-organized event, the weekend proved that Kenya is on the map when it comes to global gaming culture. With the dedication of players, the support of fans, and the leadership of organizers like Sharley, the future of esports in Kenya is undoubtedly bright. The event has set the stage for even bigger and better competitions in the coming seasons, and it’s clear that the Kenyan gaming community is ready for what’s next.