Konke Gamers Changing the Game for Accessible esports in South Africa

Photo Credit: Konke Gamers ZA

Konke Gamers’ upcoming Accessible Esports Tournament will celebrate participation, inclusion and the growing push for accessibility in all things gaming

Durban, South Africa (10 May 2026) – Gaming has always been about connection, competition and community, but for many people living with disabilities, simply picking up a controller is not always that straightforward. That is exactly the space Durban-based adaptive surfer David Williams is working to change through Konke Gamers.

Founded as a passion project, Konke Gamers has grown into an initiative focused on making gaming more accessible and inclusive for South Africans of all abilities. The name “Konke”, which means “all” in isiZulu, captures the heart of the project: creating a space where everyone can play, compete and belong.

David, who has worked in retail, technology and team development, said the idea came after noticing how many people were being left out of the gaming world because traditional setups simply did not cater to their needs.

Instead of accepting that reality, he started looking for ways to make gaming more accessible through adapted controllers, assistive technology and customised gaming setups.

Konke Gamers now works closely with therapists, families and organisations to help create gaming experiences tailored to individual needs. In one recent collaboration with an occupational therapy practice, the team introduced a customised gaming setup to patients undergoing rehabilitation.

What followed was more than just a few gaming sessions. Patients who previously struggled to engage with games were suddenly laughing, competing and reconnecting with a sense of independence and confidence. And for many participants, it became less about gaming and more about feeling included.

Konke Gamers has also linked up with internationally recognised organisation AbleGamers, giving the South African initiative access to global training, resources and assistive gaming technology. David has since become a strong advocate for inclusive design, encouraging developers and organisations to think about accessibility from the very beginning.

The next major step for the initiative comes in July, when Konke Gamers hosts the Konke Gamers Accessible Esports Tournament 2026 at the Tropicana Hotel in Durban.

The event will bring together gamers of all abilities in a space designed around participation, accessibility and community. Alongside competitive gaming, attendees can expect accessible gaming stations, interactive experiences, vendors and opportunities to explore assistive technology firsthand.

Through Konke Gamers, the goal is to make sure nobody misses out on moments of fun, connection and community simply because the world was not originally designed with them in mind.

People wanting to learn more, support the initiative or get involved can contact Konke Gamers via Instagram at @konkegamersza or email [email protected].