In a groundbreaking moment for the esports industry in Africa, the International Esports Federation (IESF) has officially recognised the newly formed African Confederation of Digital Sports (ACDS) as the legitimate esports governing body for the continent. This historic announcement was made during the Unconference event held in Iași, Romania, on August 27, 2023, as part of the World Esports Championship.
The ACDS, headquartered in Casablanca, Morocco, now boasts an impressive roster of 41 member countries from across the African continent, firmly establishing itself as the leading force in African esports development and promotion.
The newly elected President of ACDS, Mr. Hicham El Khlifi, also received a remarkable accolade during the event. He was appointed as the IESF Vice President for Africa, a testament to his exemplary leadership and the remarkable strides made by ACDS under his guidance.
The member countries of ACDS include an array of African nations, such as Angola, Benin, Botswana, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cameroon, Central Africa Republic, Chad, Djibouti, Democratic Republic of Congo, Eswatini, Ethiopia, Gambia, Ghana, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Ivory Coast, Kenya, Lesotho, Liberia, Madagascar, Malawi, Mali, Mauritania, Mauritius, Morocco, Mozambique, Namibia, Niger, Nigeria, Rwanda, São Tomé and Principe, Senegal, Sierra Leone, Somalia, South Africa, South Sudan, Sudan, Tanzania, Togo, and Uganda.
These countries have come together under the ACDS banner with a shared vision of advancing esports in Africa. The official recognition by IESF not only validates their efforts but also opens up numerous opportunities for the esports industry on the continent.
The significance of this recognition cannot be overstated. It will undoubtedly propel ACDS and its member countries into the global esports arena, attracting more countries to join their ranks and enticing stakeholders, brands, and industry players to form partnerships.
ACDS, with its newly conferred legitimacy, is poised to lead the charge in nurturing esports talent, hosting tournaments, and creating opportunities for African gamers on a grand scale. This recognition acts as a symbol of their commitment to the growth and development of esports across the continent.
The global esports community is now watching Africa with keen interest as the African Confederation of Digital Sports gears up to make a profound impact on the esports landscape. With the IESF endorsement and a united front of 41 African nations, ACDS is set to usher in a new era of esports excellence on the continent.