USIU's (L-R) Leroy Barasa, Bryan Bernard, Jesse Kariuki, ⁠Ajewole Pelumi, and Miguel Koikai

USIU-Africa team member Jesse Kariuki believes their victory at the inter-campus esports tournament underlines the growing talent and competitive spirit within Kenya’s university gaming scene.

Kariuki said the triumph was particularly satisfying given the quality of opposition, adding that teamwork, preparation and discipline had proved decisive in the event organised as part of Carry1st’s Call of Duty: Mobile (COD: M) Siku Zombo Tour.

“Winning this tournament is a great feeling, especially because we were competing against some very strong university teams. We put in the work, trusted each other, and remained focused throughout the competition. This victory is a proud moment for us and shows the level of talent and competitive spirit within university esports in Kenya,” said Kariuki.

USIU-Africa’s winning team comprised Leroy Barasa, alias Raging, Bryan Bernard, Kariuki, Ajewole Pelumi, and Miguel Koikai, popularly known as Denarius. They defeated several university rivals to claim the championship title and a KSh100,000 cash prize.

Dedan Kimathi University of Technology finished second, with Multimedia University taking third place. The University of Eldoret settled for fourth.

Daystar University, Meru University of Science and Technology, Zetech University and Chuka University also participated, underscoring the growing interest in competitive mobile gaming among university students.

Carry1st Project Manager Adekoya ‘Andre’ Ayomide said the company was committed to creating more competitive opportunities for Kenyan gamers.

“Seeing the passion and energy of the Kenyan COD: M community throughout the Siku Zombo tour has been incredible. From campus rivalries to the unique Nganya activations, the turnout shows there’s indeed active local enthusiasm for what we do.

“Our goal is to keep backing the local scene, presenting more competitive opportunities, and supporting the Kenyan COD: M community until it reaches its full potential on both regional and global stages,” said Ayomide.