From a Shoe to a Movement: The Inspiring Story Behind Gamers Planet Malawi

What started as a teenager’s dream to buy a pair of shoes has turned into one of the most exciting and youth-driven entertainment hubs in Malawi.

Meet Kelvin Malunga, the co-founder of Gamers Planet, a vibrant gaming center that is transforming how young people experience games in Malawi. But what makes this story even more inspiring is that Kelvin didn’t come up with the idea on his own, it was born from the entrepreneurial spark of his then 13-year-old brother, a passionate gamer with expensive taste and a bold dream.

A Shoe That Sparked a Business Idea

The story begins with a simple request: a younger brother asked Kelvin for a pair of shoes. The price was steep, and Kelvin, being honest, told him he couldn’t afford it. Instead of ending the conversation there, he gave his brother advice that would change both of their lives: “If you want expensive things, you need to start making money.” That was all the push the young boy needed.

Soon after, he came up with the idea of using his PlayStation to start a gaming business, a place where people could pay a little to play, meet, and have fun. He pitched the idea to Kelvin, who at the time was also searching for a business to start. The idea stuck with him, and before long, Gamers Planet was born.

A Space Built on Sharing and Passion

Gamers Planet was never just about profit. For Kelvin, it was about sharing the joy of gaming. Especially those expensive games that many Malawians can’t easily afford. For his brother, it was about creating a space where gamers could meet, compete, and just be themselves.

They didn’t launch with glitz and glamour. Instead, they invited their audience into the process. From cleaning the shop to installing TVs and setting up the space. By sharing every step on social media, they built a loyal following. When the doors finally opened in November last year, people already felt connected to the journey. There was no grand launch, but the crowds showed up naturally and excitedly.

Gaming That Builds Community

Gamers Planet isn’t just a gaming center. It’s a safe hangout space for young people, a place that promotes positive social interaction, creativity, and even healing. Many young people who might otherwise be drawn into harmful habits like alcohol use have found a new passion through gaming.

The center is inclusive too welcoming kids as young as five and adults alike. Games like FC5 and WWE attract a diverse crowd. Monthly tournaments for football games draw large audiences, and movie or game nights keep the vibe fun and engaging.

Even though most of the audience is male, Kelvin and his team are actively working to include girls in the gaming scene. In March, for example, women paid half the price to play. While turnout was good, the team is still brainstorming creative ways to make gaming feel more accessible and exciting for girls.

Marketing by Authenticity

So far, Gamers Planet relies solely on social media marketing, using platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and Facebook. But instead of pushing ads, they focus on storytelling and showing the real people behind the brand. And that’s what works. The audience connects with the authenticity and the journey.

On the sales side, they’re still experimenting. As a young business, they’re testing out what works. From happy hour discounts to morning promotions and game nights. They're not afraid to try new things, learn, and grow.

Looking Ahead: Rural Expansion & Global Dreams

Kelvin sees a big future for Gamers Planet. Not just staying in cities but expanding into rural areas where people have less access to entertainment and digital experiences. Beyond that, they envision Malawians not only playing games but creating and exporting them internationally. Gamers Planet wants to be a platform where gaming becomes a career, tapping into the global e-sports industry and putting Malawian gamers on the map.

Advice from Kelvin: Believe in the Kwacha

Kelvin’s advice to young entrepreneurs is simple but powerful: “Value the Malawian economy.” He believes that many people hold back because they think the kwacha isn’t worth much. But to him, no amount is too small to start something meaningful. What matters is how you use what you have, even if it’s just a console and a dream.

Gaming with Heart

Kelvin’s favorite part of this journey? Watching someone pick up a controller for the first time, seeing the joy on their face, and knowing that he played a role in creating that moment. For him, that’s what makes it all worth it.

Gamers Planet is more than just a business, it’s a movement, a community, and a place where young people can be themselves, discover new passions, and build a future in gaming.