Day 1 of the inaugural PUBG Africa Championship exploded into action Saturday at Nairobi’s packed Charter Hall, with Kenyan squads dominating the continent’s elite.

Home favourites Team Execute stormed to the top of the leaderboard after claiming two emphatic victories, including a thrilling win on the Sanhok map.

 They also impressed in the Erangel rounds, where fellow Kenyans Rescue Esports snatched victory in one of two matches, underscoring Kenya’s rising stature in competitive mobile gaming.

Esports Kenya Federation President Ronny Luigi hailed the event as a landmark moment for African gaming. 

“The level of preparedness and talent we have in Kenya is outstanding,from players to management and production,” he said, praising seamless logistics and Kenya’s new visa-free policy for Africans. 

Lusigi revealed that competitors hail from over 13 African nations,including Tanzania, Uganda, Algeria, Nigeria, South Africa, Mali, Mauritius, Madagascar and Mauritania—alongside international entrants from China and the United Kingdom.

Kuishi noted the overwhelming fan interest whilst the same time calling on corporate entities to support the growing hub.

 “Tickets sold out a month ago. Our biggest challenge is space. We need bigger venues like KICC to host enthusiastic Gen Z fans who had to stream online today.” He also highlighted plans to grow into other titles such as eFootball, Call of Duty Mobile, EAFC, Tekken and Mobile Legends, with an eye on the upcoming Olympic Esports Games.

South Sudan–born Bay Lual, Sanhok MVP and a key Execute player, described the matches as “crazy, noisy and tense,” but said his team was prepared.

“We’ve been here before and will keep applying pressure. Africa can now play at PMGC level—what used to be a dream is now achievable.”

The championship wraps up Sunday, with Kenyan teams poised to chase the continental crown and organizers pledging to expand future tournaments as esports cements its place in Africa’s sporting landscape.