How soccer has the potential to transform Africa’s landscape

The sport has created a complete ecosystem that includes online gamblers, professional athletes, passionate supporters, broadcasters, sidewalks, and tavern owners. Soccer is undoubtedly the most esteemed sport on the planet. Additionally, it is also the greatest cultural unifier in the continent.

The sport has created a complete ecosystem that includes online gamblers, professional athletes, passionate supporters, broadcasters, sidewalks, and tavern owners. Take the AFCON 2021 example; the tournament was broadcast in more than 157 counties. The matches received high engagement levels on social media platforms like Twitter, Facebook, and Tik Tok.

Soccer has Massive Potential in Africa

Africa still has a lot of potential to make critical inroads that would spur economic activity by linking local communities. For example, the sport would improve the creative and cultural economy, including fashion, tourism, culinary, and entertainment.

During the 2010 World Cup in South Africa, an African horn used to galvanize members during community meetings became a global phenomenon. Currently, the vuvuzela has become a symbol of football events.

Infrastructure Development

Soccer and African culture converge in the design and construction of stadiums. Most African stadiums are dilapidated arenas deemed unsuitable for hosting matches. In this regard, CAF has banned several stadia from hosting international soccer matches.

While this might seem like a setback, it is actually a blessing in disguise. It is an opportunity for local designers to partner with property developers to refurbish the stadiums. That would spur a plethora of economic growth among the African counties.

Financial Impact of Sports on the Continent

While the sports sector is neglected on the continent, it still contributes to the economy. The industry has a lot of untapped potential because strategic planning, policy, and investments are largely unimplemented.

For example, the AFCON usually presents a lucrative deal to sportswomen and sportsmen. In 2019, the participating teams went home with $600,000, while the winner took home $4.5 million. The continent can take advantage of the benefits associated with soccer to transform its economic landscape. For instance, the 2010 World Cup put South Africa on the global scene.

Also, Africa boasts a plethora of talent which interests the European soccer world. In this sense, Germany have invested in Africa as they look to tap into the raw talent from the continent. With time, such partnerships will help soccer in the continent to grow and become more profitable to all stakeholders.

Source: reviewonline.co.za

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