Back in 2011, Devon Petersen became the first African player to compete at the PDC World Darts Championship, a milestone that opened the sport’s eyes to an entire continent of untapped potential. His arrival on the world stage didn’t just mark a historic moment, it proved that Africa could produce players capable of mixing it with the very best.
Petersen went on to become a top-class professional, winning global titles and climbing firmly into the world’s elite. His popularity, charisma, and visibility helped put African darts on the map, inspiring players across South Africa and beyond.
But after that first breakthrough, progress was slower than many hoped. While African representation grew, it didn’t explode in the early years. Players such as Charl Pietersen and Cameron Carolissen qualified for Ally Pally and performed admirably, but it still felt like the continent was waiting for its next surge.
That surge may now be happening.
The African Series – A Game-Changer?
In the last two to three years, darts across Africa has begun accelerating dramatically. One of the biggest drivers has been the creation of the PDC-affiliated African Series: six regional leagues across the continent, giving players consistent competition, structure, and a genuine pathway to the top.
This has allowed emerging players from nations like:
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Botswana
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Tanzania
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Kenya
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Uganda
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Zimbabwe
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South Africa
to compete regularly, improve rapidly, and gain recognition far beyond their local scenes.
Spotlight from the Modus Super Series
The impact is already being seen overseas. The Modus Super Series, one of the most competitive weekly darts events in the world, has begun featuring players from across Africa ,including competitors from Botswana, South Africa, and Kenya.
These opportunities are priceless. They provide:
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Stage experience
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Broadcast pressure
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Professional-level opposition
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Exposure to international audiences
And with each appearance, African darts builds more momentum.
Kenya Breaks Through – David Munyua’s Debut
This year, David Munyua becomes the first Kenyan to qualify for the PDC World Darts Championship, marking yet another significant moment for the continent.
His qualification signals something bigger than one player:
- another African nation taking darts seriously.
- another country investing in its talent.
- another pool of players now believing they can reach the top.
The more African nations that make this leap, the stronger the entire continent becomes.
What Happens Next?
South Africa still has the largest player base, but the gap is closing fast. Countries like Botswana, Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda are now producing strong, competitive players and it feels like only a matter of time before multiple African nations regularly appear at Ally Pally.
2026 could be the real turning point.
As the African Series expands, and more players earn Modus invitations or qualify for international majors, fans worldwide are going to start recognising these names the same way we now recognise emerging stars from Asia and North America.
African darts is no longer a dream or a novelty.
It’s here and it’s growing fast.