Esports Kenya Federation (ESFK) has announced strict new rules governing the involvement of minors in professional gaming with the aim of protecting young players from exploitation within Kenya’s rapidly growing esports industry.
In a notice issued on May 19, the Federation affirms that it recognizes the role that teams, managers, scouts, and agents play in nurturing talent, but stresses that a child’s welfare must always come first.
“The Esports Kenya Federation (ESKF) acknowledges and appreciates the significant contribution of esports teams, managers, scouts, and agents in fostering the growth of Kenyan Esports and identifying young talent,” stated ESFK.
Central to the new guidelines is Kenya’s Children’s Act 2022, which explicitly states that a minor’s training or competitive schedule must not compromise their education, health, or general well-being at any point.
Additionally, the Counter-Trafficking in Persons Act of 2010 is equally binding under the new ESKF framework, requiring full transparency in how organizations recruit, transfer, and house young players throughout the country.
Under the aforementioned new laws, it implies that any form of deceptive recruitment, unauthorized relocation, or economic exploitation of a minor is strictly prohibited.
On the other hand, parental consent is non-negotiable under the new rules, with ESKF requiring that any contract involving a minor must carry explicit, documented approval from a legally recognized parent or guardian before it can take effect.
The federation is concise on this aspect, stressing that “Contracts without parental involvement are null and void.”
The ESKF has also adopted a zero-tolerance policy against any organization or individual found exploiting young players, bypassing legal guardianship arrangements, or violating any of the statutory laws outlined in its guidelines.
Beyond teams and managers, ESKF has directed its advisory specifically at parents and guardians, urging them to thoroughly vet any agent, manager, or team before allowing their child to sign any esports agreement.
“Parents and Guardians are urged to exercise rigorous due diligence. Before signing any agreement, they should thoroughly vet agents, managers or teams, verify their registration, and understand contract terms” stated ESFK
Parents are also encouraged to verify the registration status of these entities, understand every term in a contract, and ensure that their child’s digital safety and mental well-being are legally guaranteed before committing.
This comes at a time when Esports in the country is rapidly transforming from a fringe hobby into a lucrative, multi-million-dollar industry, driven by high-speed internet availability, widespread smartphone penetration, which youngsters are increasingly growing fond of.
While the broader sector encompasses young adults up to age 35, participation among children under 18 and adolescents has surged significantly thus calling for strict regulations.