The Gambia makes debut at inaugural African Esports Cup of Nations
The tournament was Africa’s first large-scale organised esports championship, designed to promote gaming as a recognised competitive discipline.
The Gambia.- The Gambia has recorded its first appearance in the inaugural African Esports Cup of Nations, a continent-wide electronic sports tournament held in Casablanca, Morocco, from January 15 to 17, 2026. Represented by eFootball player Ismaila Touray, the country joined 47 other African nations in the event, which focused on competitive video gaming as a platform for skill and strategy.
Touray, selected by the E-Football Federation of The Gambia, competed in matches simulating professional football through digital gameplay. He was accompanied to the event by the federation’s President, Edrissa Barry, who highlighted the role of local support – particularly a donation from Mustapha Njie, Chief Executive Officer of TAF Africa Global – in making participation possible. He said: “We are grateful to Mustapha Njie for supporting the federation with a cash donation of fifteen thousand dalasis (€178). The funds covered the purchase of a phone for Touray to use in training and competition.”
The tournament was Africa’s first large-scale organised esports championship, designed to promote gaming as a recognised competitive discipline. Morocco emerged as the winner, with Yassine Garwi taking the title. Ivory Coast’s Oka Attohoura Martinez placed second, and Algeria’s Haddadi Moslem secured third position. The event offered prizes of $5,000 (€4,310) for first place, $3,000 (€2,586) for second and $2,000 (€1,724) for third, providing motivation for future participation.
While The Gambia did not advance to the podium, officials viewed the experience as a step forward. Barry expressed hope for stronger performances in the future, noting that the federation plans to scout more players and secure additional partnerships.
