By Aoma Keziah,
The 2024 Africa Football Business Summit, themed “Unlocking Africa’s Youth Potential – Sports and Social Innovation at Play,” has spotlighted the transformative power of sports and social innovation as key drivers of youth empowerment and socioeconomic development across the continent. The event brought together top speakers and leaders from Africa and beyond, exploring how football can be leveraged to foster youth engagement, entrepreneurship, and sustainable development.
One of the key highlights of the Summit was the participation of SPORTS20, a leading sports development organization. SPORTS20 delivered a workshop titled “Delivering a Sustainable Legacy for AFCON 2027,” underscoring the increasing emphasis on sustainability in African football.
The workshop focused on creating long-lasting impacts through initiatives that promote environmental responsibility, community development, and youth engagement in preparation for the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2027.
“AFCON can boost smaller local football events, fostering social growth and youth development. This bottom-up approach is key for the sports business perspective.” Said Kamila Swart, Associate Professor, Master of Science in Sport and Entertainment Management, Hamad bin Khalifa.
SPORTS20 is also partnering with FFA to harness the power of sports and advocate for a just, sustainable future, aiming to change the African football narrative.
The Summit showcased Africa’s potential to use football not just as a sport but as a platform for social change, providing youth with opportunities for personal growth, leadership, and economic participation. Speakers at the event emphasized the role of football in uniting communities, inspiring young people, and driving innovation in various sectors.
This year’s summit highlighted how, through sports, Africa can unlock its greatest resource, its youth by harnessing their potential to contribute to the continent’s socioeconomic transformation.
Mt Kenya Times 
John Kariuki