The African E-Sports Championships (AEC24) launched on Friday and will run until August 21 at Casablanca’s Mohammed V Sports Complex, drawing unprecedented attention across Africa.
Organized by the African Confederation of Electronic Sports (ACDS) and the International E-Sports Federation (IESF), the event offers participants a chance to qualify for the World E-Sports Championships in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia this November.
Over 20 Moroccan athletes are competing to secure spots at the World e-Sports Championships in Saudi Arabia.
More than 180 athletes from 17 countries will compete in five categories: CS2 Open, CS2 Women, MLBB Open, MLBB Women, and PubG Mobile.
Key figures at the event included Casablanca-Anfa Governor Aziz Dadès, Vice President of Casablanca’s City Council Abdellatif Ennassiri, and Director of Sports Abderrazak El Akari.
IESF Secretary General Boban Totovski welcomed Morocco’s efforts, noting the kingdom’s role in promoting e-sports.
Hicham El Khlifi, President of FRMJE and ACDS, highlighted the importance of holding in-person events to foster South-South partnerships.
El Khlifi pointed out the economic impact of e-sports, with revenues surpassing traditional entertainment industries like cinema, and discussed efforts to promote the sport in Africa.
ACDS Executive Director Soufiane Filali commended Morocco’s capability to host large-scale events, positioning Casablanca as Africa’s e-sports capital.
The opening ceremony, featuring performances by Moroccan and African artists, highlighted unity and friendship, setting the tone for the competition. It concluded with an exhibition match between Morocco’s national team and a mixed African team, showcasing the continent’s talent.
The event seeks to strengthen ties between African nations, highlighting the power and potential of the African e-sports community.
As Africa’s first offline e-sports championship, AEC24 marks a pivotal moment, showcasing the continent’s growing talent and potential in the global e-sports arena.