Carry1st, Africa’s leading games publisher, is launching an all-female Mobile Legends: Bang Bang (MLBB) tournament at Insomnia in Cairo, Egypt.
The Carry1st Africa Cup: MLBB Women’s Invitational (MWI) Qualifier will serve as the official Esports World Cup (EWC) MWI 2025 Africa Qualifier, with the winners securing a spot at the Esports World Cup in Saudi Arabia later this year.
Why it matters
Despite Africa’s growing gaming community, female esports players remain underrepresented on the global stage.
This initiative provides a dedicated platform for women to compete at the highest level and gain international recognition.
How it works
- The tournament will feature two online qualifiers—one for Egypt and one for the rest of Africa.
- Each qualifier will host 32 teams in a double-elimination playoff format.
- The winners will face off in a grand final at Insomnia Egypt, where the champions will earn their place at the Esports World Cup.
Key dates
- March 26: Registration opens at cup.carry1st.com
- April 2: Registration closes
- April 4-6: Online qualifiers for Rest of Africa teams, covering countries like South Africa, Nigeria, Ghana, Kenya, and more
- April 10-12: Online qualifiers for Egypt-based teams
- April 24-26: Grand final at Insomnia Egypt
What they’re saying
- Lucy Hoffman, Co-founder & COO, Carry1st: “This is the first women’s tournament for the Carry1st Cup, and we’re excited to provide a platform for Africa’s top female players. Africa has the talent and passion to compete globally, and we’re here to make that happen.”
- Ray Ng, Head of Esports Ecosystem, Moonton Games: “We are witnessing a thriving esports scene in Africa and are proud to help talented female players make their mark. This partnership represents our commitment to inclusivity in competitive gaming.”
The big picture
MLBB has become a global esports phenomenon, with last year’s Esports World Cup MLBB Women’s Invitational peaking at over 250,000 viewers.
Carry1st’s initiative is a major step in solidifying Africa’s place in the international esports arena.
