Uganda Esports Federation names Kyarisiima Israel as CEO
Kyarisiima Israel
Appointment
The Uganda Esports Federation has appointed Kyarisiima Israel as chief executive, giving him responsibility for building the administrative and commercial foundations of the country's organised esports sector. Kyarisiima officially took office on September 14, 2026. He will oversee the federation's administrative and strategic affairs as esports in Uganda develops beyond recreational gaming into a sector spanning sport, technology, broadcasting, content creation and events.
Kyarisiima said the role gives him an opportunity to work with Uganda's increasingly digital generation and position esports as a serious sporting and economic opportunity for young people. His priorities include building stronger structures, developing talent, creating opportunities and connecting Uganda's esports ecosystem to the wider African and global industry. Kyarisiima also acknowledged that the sector is new to him, describing the appointment as a learning opportunity in a market with significant potential. The federation has not disclosed a budget, sponsors, competition calendar or commercial targets alongside the appointment. Those areas will be important as the federation seeks to turn participation into a more structured industry.
Esports In Africa
The next stage will be building the commercial capabilities around Esports, particularly partnerships, broadcasting, events and content. The Global Esports Federation established the Africa Esports Development Federation in 2021, providing a potential pathway for national federations to connect with regional and international competitions and development programmes. Kyarisiima said the appointment also carries significant responsibility and that his performance will ultimately be measured by what the federation is able to build during his tenure.
