NAIROBI, Kenya – The energy at Charter Hall was electric as Joash “Jojo” Agutu emerged victorious at the eLigue1Tour national finals, taking down Mombasa’s top seed Harun Ahmed in a gripping 3-2 final on Friday night.
With the win, the 23-year-old Kenyatta University student not only pocketed Sh25,000 but also secured a dream trip to Paris, France, courtesy of Ligue 1 McDonald’s.
This victory was more than just a title—Agutu had redemption on his mind after finishing runner-up in last year’s tournament.
“I am so happy. Last year, I bottled in the finals, but clearly, God’s time is the best. I have worked so hard, and now I can finally celebrate,” said an elated Agutu.
A Tournament Full of Upsets and Dominance
The road to the final wasn’t easy. Agutu made his intentions clear from the start, thrashing Collins Ngugi 7-1 in the quarterfinals before edging out tournament favorite Harry Kappa 4-3 in a tense semifinal showdown.
Ahmed, on the other hand, pulled off the biggest shocker of the night by eliminating defending champion Eric “Demon” Ngige 4-2 in the semifinals, after scraping past Sam Carter 1-0 in the quarters.
For his runner-up finish, Ahmed took home Sh15,000, a solid reward for an impressive run.
Congratulations Jojo and Bree for winning your respective categories in the #eligue1tour grand finale!!
Teen Sensation Bree Nekesa Dominates Women’s Exhibition
While Agutu stole the spotlight in the main event, 14-year-old Brillian “Bree” Nekesa turned heads in the ladies’ exhibition category, proving that the future of Kenyan esports is bright.
Nekesa delivered a flawless debut performance, crushing Bernice 7-0 in the semifinals before dismantling Shantel Njogu 9-2 in the final.
“I had some nerves playing on the big stage for the first time, but my coach helped me calm down and stick to the plan. When I am composed, I can overcome any player,” said Nekesa, beaming with pride after her dominant display.
It was an honor to attend the Eligue1Tour 2025 Tournament at Charter Hall, Nairobi, alongside Prime Cabinet Secretary Hon. @MusaliaMudavadi , Ambassador of France to Kenya H.E Arnaud Suquet and other county officials. This incredible event showcased Kenya’s finest gaming talent,
Esports on the Rise in Kenya
The tournament drew top dignitaries, including Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi, French Ambassador Arnaud Suquet, and Nairobi Deputy Governor Njoroge Muchiri, further solidifying Kenya’s growing esports scene.
With champions like Agutu and Nekesa leading the way, and Kenya’s best players set to compete internationally, the country’s esports momentum is only getting started.
