Republic of Senegal Supports Initiative for Nationwide Esports

The government of the Republic of Senegal has initiated a strategic effort to formalize and expand the esports landscape across the African continent. By partnering with various national federations and stakeholders, the government aims to establish the PanAfrican Confederation, an institution designed to foster growth in digital, creative, and physical economies. The primary objective is to prepare Africa’s youth for emerging career paths in the global electronic games and immersive sports sectors, positioning the continent as a significant leader in the international gaming community.

The initiative centers on a Constitutive General Assembly held in Dakar in late September 2023, which brought together delegates from 45 African nations. This gathering was supported by high-level Senegalese officials, including the President and the Minister of Communication, Telecommunications and Digital Economy, alongside international organizations such as UNESCO, the African Union Sports Council, and various corporate partners including Visa and Orange.

The focus on esports is driven by the continent's demographic profile, which features a population of approximately 1.46 billion people with a median age of 18.8 years. By leveraging this young, increasingly urbanized demographic—with nearly 45% of the population residing in urban centers—the initiative seeks to create sustainable engagement and professional opportunities. The formation of the PanAfrican Confederation represents a coordinated effort to unify regional interests and provide a structured framework for the development of competitive gaming and digital infrastructure across Africa.