On Wednesday 14th January 2026, Cade eSports and Game Evolution reaffirmed their commitment to accelerating the growth of the African gaming and esports industry at a joint press conference During the session, Chima Paulson, Founder of Cade eSports, and Adenipebi Kunmi Sholakunmi, CEO and Founder of Game Evolution, outlined a shared vision to position Cade eSports as the largest gaming and esports provider in Africa.
Esports and competitive gaming are rapidly becoming mainstream across Africa, driven by a booming youth-centric gaming culture and widespread mobile adoption. Africa’s gaming market now supports over 349 million gamers, with the continent’s competitive esports sector valued at roughly $40 million and projected to exceed $60 million by 2025, reflecting strong growth potential.
This rise is most visible among African youth, where esports tournaments, leagues, and community events attract large player bases and viewers, while major markets like South Africa, Egypt, and Nigeria show rising revenues and engagement. With grassroots programs, school clubs, and mobile-focused competitions expanding, young players are finding both creative and professional pathways within the industry. As sponsors, media platforms, and global partners increasingly invest in African esports, the ecosystem continues to shift from informal play to structured, competitive circuits, turning gaming into a viable social and economic opportunity for the continent’s youth.
Since the inception of their partnership in 2023, Cade eSports and Game Evolution have worked collaboratively to expand access to competitive gaming and esports opportunities across the continent. The partnership has already delivered over 50 esports tournaments, including the Cade African Gaming Expo (CAGE), widely recognized as one of the largest esports tournaments in Africa and a key platform for showcasing African esports talent.
A major focus of the press conference was the organizations’ commitment to grassroots esports development. Central to this effort is the National E-Soccer Pro League (Division 2), scheduled to run from January 17 to March 2026. The league will feature competitors from eight African countries, competing across six gaming titles: EAFC, Street Fighter, Free Fire, Chess, Just Dance, and Fortnite, for a total prize pool of $20,000.
In addition, both organizations highlighted initiatives such as kids-friendly esports tournaments and local government-based competitions, including the Onile eSports Championship. These programs are designed to identify, nurture, and develop young gaming talent while embedding esports within local communities and creating sustainable development pathways.
Speaking at the event, Chima Paulson emphasized the importance of accessibility in growing Africa’s esports ecosystem. He noted that the partnership is focused on lowering entry barriers by providing access to gaming consoles, PCs, and mobile devices, enabling more young people to participate in gaming and esports regardless of background.
Adenipebi Kunmi Sholakunmi reiterated Game Evolution’s commitment to transforming public perception of gaming and esports in Africa, highlighting its educational, economic, and social value. He also emphasized the sector’s potential to create new career opportunities for African youth, beyond professional gameplay.
Together, Cade eSports and Game Evolution are building a sustainable and inclusive esports ecosystem in Africa, one that supports talent development, community engagement, and industry growth at both grassroots and elite levels. As the partnership continues to expand, both organizations remain focused on redefining Africa’s role in the global gaming and esports landscape.
About Cade Esports
Cade Esports is a leading African gaming and esports organization dedicated to developing competitive gaming through tournaments, community engagement, and structured talent development initiatives across the continent.
About Game Evolution
Game Evolution is a gaming and technology company focused on advancing the African gaming ecosystem through strategic partnerships, innovation, and industry development.
