KIGALI, Sept. 10 (Xinhua) -- African sports personnel, policymakers, and stakeholders have called for stronger structures and investment to unlock the continent's vast sporting potential at the second edition of the SportsBiz Africa Forum (SBA 2025), which opened Tuesday in the Rwandan capital Kigali.
The two-day forum, which runs through Wednesday, positions Africa's sports industry as a key driver of sustainable socio-economic development. It has attracted sports personalities, enthusiasts, and industry leaders from across Africa and beyond.
Speaking at the event, former Nigerian football star Jay-Jay Okocha spoke passionately about the need for stronger foundations in African sports.
"Having the right foundation is essential. We never lack talent, but without the structure or facilities to nurture it, that talent goes to waste," Okocha said. "Football is so big, yet in Africa we have not fully realized the potential it brings."
He criticized the perception of sports as a secondary business on the continent, stressing the need for professionalism and long-term planning. "It is still treated as a side department when it comes to business in Africa. To reap the benefits that football offers, we must do things the right way," he added.
Okocha also urged African nations to build a culture of infrastructure maintenance and grassroots development. "Some countries have built good infrastructure, but without enough programs to use and sustain it. It all comes back to the platform and the grassroots," he said.
On the migration of African players abroad, Okocha said the lack of viable local structures continues to drive talent away. "If we get it right, there will be no need for our players to go abroad. Instead, we will have foreigners coming to Africa to play," he noted. "Because it is difficult to make a good living after finishing a career in Africa, most of us leave early. That's why we see players moving abroad so quickly. We must fix this if we want to keep our players here."
Clare Akamanzi, chief executive officer of NBA Africa, highlighted the rapid growth potential of the sector. "Africa's sports industry is projected to grow faster than the continent's GDP, which presents a powerful opportunity for all," she said, stressing that young people can thrive not only as athletes but also by building careers in the wider sports ecosystem.
Nelly Mukazayire, Rwanda's minister of sports, emphasized the transformative role of sports in driving both economic growth and national pride. "Africa is no longer just exporting talent, but actively shaping and growing its own future," she said.
Christian Gakwaya, chief executive officer of Rwanda Events, underscored the importance of the forum as a platform for innovation and collaboration. "Africa can do it and will do it," he said. "It's time for Africa not just to receive, but to give and lead."
The SportsBiz Africa Forum is an annual flagship event dedicated to advancing the sports economy and promoting sports as a thriving business sector in line with the African Union's Agenda 2063, which recognizes sports as a catalyst for unity, solidarity, and socio-economic progress.
This year's edition includes exhibitions, masterclasses, and a career fair, providing young professionals with valuable insights and opportunities to build careers in the sports industry. The program also highlights ongoing investments, upcoming deals, and strategic initiatives shaping the future of African sports.
