A global competition called SeedStars that seeks to unveil emerging startups across the globe has conducted its first ever pitching session in Nairobi, crowning a gaming company as the winner of its Kenya leg.

The winning startup called ‘Jooist’ has partnered with world renowned gaming companies such as Booster Media in the Netherlands to prepare to launch a gaming and apps store on the continent.

Founder of Jooist, Waliaula Makokha, has also hinted that the company is in talks with mobile operator Safaricom to power its app store, which is expected to be launched soon.

The competition -- which is being held in 20 countries around the world including African countries such as Ghana, Rwanda, Nigeria, Kenya and South Africa -- is being supported by global business and entrepreneurial bodies including the iHub in Kenya and incubation hub the GrowthHub.

The pitching session in Nairobi heard ideas ranging from mobile payment services to medical health apps.

“I have a massive vote of confidence,” Munyutu Waigi President Ringie, who was one of the judges said.

“There were businesses that were on a higher level than the other. But do not give up. You need to come back and come back harder.”

The winner of the competition will head to Switzerland on a fully paid trip to compete with other startups from other countries for $100,000 to $500,000 funding.

Other competitors in the Nairobi heat are also planned to receive coaching for their business and will still have an opportunity to pitch in the final competition in Switzerland.

The SeedStars competition was held at the GrowthHub in Nairobi and moves to Cape Town on the 10th of May.