Kyarisiima Israel Takes Helm as CEO of Uganda Esports Federation

Uganda’s esports landscape is set for a new direction with the appointment of Kyarisiima Israel as the Chief Executive Officer of the Uganda Esports Federation. This move places a young leader with proven experience in youth engagement and organizational development at the forefront of the nation’s rapidly growing digital sports sector.

Kyarisiima officially began his duties on September 14, 2026. He is stepping into a role at a crucial time, as esports transitions from a casual pastime to a professional industry encompassing sport, technology, entertainment, broadcasting, content creation, and business.

Expressing his feelings about the appointment, Kyarisiima stated, “I feel honoured and excited about this new responsibility. Being appointed CEO of the Uganda Esports Federation is not something I take lightly.” He views this position as a significant chance to connect with a generation deeply immersed in technology and to elevate esports into a viable sporting and economic avenue for young Ugandans.

“For me, it is an opportunity to work with a generation that is increasingly digital and to help position esports as a serious sporting and economic opportunity for young Ugandans,” Kyarisiima remarked.

His appointment coincides with the ongoing expansion of Uganda’s sports industry into diverse disciplines. Esports, in particular, offers a broad spectrum of opportunities beyond just competitive play, including roles for professional players, coaches, content creators, broadcasters, event organizers, and technology specialists.

The Federation’s immediate goal is to establish robust structures for identifying talent, nurturing players, and linking Uganda’s gaming community with international opportunities. Kyarisiima emphasized that building these foundational elements will be a primary focus during his leadership.

“My focus will be on building strong structures, developing talent, creating opportunities and connecting Uganda’s esports ecosystem to the wider African and global industry,” he outlined.

While acknowledging the potential, the new CEO also recognizes the learning curve involved. “I also see this as a new learning journey for me. I am coming into a sector with enormous potential,” he added.

As esports continues its global ascent, Uganda’s capacity to organize its ecosystem and provide clear development pathways for its young talent will be key to its success on the international stage. Kyarisiima sees this appointment as a new platform to serve the youth, understanding that the Federation’s achievements will be the ultimate measure of his tenure.

“The appointment gives me a new platform to serve young people, but it also comes with a big responsibility. I know I will be judged by what we are able to build, and that is the challenge I am excited to take on.”

Kyarisiima’s tenure begins with the significant task of shaping Uganda’s esports infrastructure and integrating the discipline into the nation’s broader sports and digital economy framework. Source: Nile Post