Ghana esports gets official recognition, GeSF takes the lead

The National Sports Authority (NSA) has officially recognised esports as a sport in Ghana.

The Ghana Esports Federation (GeSF), led by President Igor Boumekpo, has been recognised as the sole authority to develop and oversee competitive video gaming in the country.

This move signifies a major step forward for the Ghanaian esports scene, providing a structured framework for development and legitimising competitive gaming within the national sporting landscape.

In an exclusive interview with asaaseradio.com, NSA deputy director general Bawa Majeed highlighted that GeSF met all the necessary requirements for official recognition.

These criteria encompass having an established interim executive committee, a clear constitution, a national development strategy, a dedicated bank account, a physical office address, and a financial plan to support initial operations.

Furthermore, GeSF’s existing affiliation with the Confederation of Electronic Sports Africa (CESA) played a crucial role in their selection.

“There is an African federation; there is somebody responsible for esports in Africa,” explained Majeed.

“The technical department had a conversation with this [body] because my understanding is that there are two groups that applied to be recognised as the body responsible for the preparation and unfortunately one of them had links with the continental body that had already been recognised by that continental body and so it was very proper for the National Sports Authority to go in line with the international or the continental body.”

GeSF, under president Boumekpo’s leadership alongside vice-president Ebenezer Nii Tackie Laryea and deputy vice-president Samuel Amankwa-Frempong, boasts a proven track record in organising esports events. These include initiatives like the Warm Up Esports Festival (co-organised with 3Sports) and the annual Orange Esports events held since 2018. Additionally, the federation successfully managed the NFL Fan Zone during the 2023 NFL Africa Touchdown, attracting dignitaries including Vice-President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia.

The newly recognised governing body has ambitious plans for the future. GeSF aims to register all esports institutions, organisations, and associations within Ghana by 2026.

This comprehensive approach involves collaborating with regional associations, stakeholders, and enthusiasts to identify opportunities for growth. Establishing regional esports hubs tailored to specific community needs is another key objective.

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