Football holds a special place in the hearts of millions across Africa. From dusty village pitches to packed stadiums, the game unites communities, drives passion, and has produced some of the continent’s most celebrated international figures. Yet, in the shadows of football’s popularity, other sports with immense potential remain underdeveloped and underappreciated. For Africa to fully harness its youth, talent, and economic opportunities, there is a pressing need to embrace and invest in a broader range of sports.
1. Diversifying Opportunities for Talent
Not every young African will become the next Sadio Mané or Victor Osimhen, but many possess the raw talent to excel in other disciplines—athletics, basketball, tennis, boxing, swimming, volleyball, gymnastics, and more. Nations like Kenya and Ethiopia have dominated long-distance running for decades, and South Africa has produced world-class swimmers and rugby players. Imagine what the continent could achieve if similar focus and resources were dedicated to these other sports from the grassroots.
2. Economic Growth and Job Creation
The global sports industry is worth over a trillion dollars, with different sports creating value across sectors—merchandising, media, tourism, fitness, and more. Countries that diversify their sporting culture have a wider array of economic opportunities. For instance, basketball academies can foster jobs for coaches, trainers, marketers, and event organizers. A thriving athletics scene can attract international events and sports tourism. Embracing more sports means more chances for entrepreneurship and economic participation.
3. Raising Africa’s Global Profile
Football has helped put Africa on the global sports map, but a multi-sport identity can elevate the continent even further. Jamaica’s global image is strongly tied to sprinting because of Usain Bolt and other track legends. Similarly, African athletes in mixed martial arts, basketball, and boxing are already breaking barriers. By supporting these athletes and building solid infrastructures, Africa can become a powerhouse in international competitions like the Olympics and World Championships.
4. Improved Health and Social Inclusion
Different sports appeal to different people. Some youths may not connect with football but could thrive in tennis, judo, skateboarding, or netball. Expanding access to diverse sports improves youth engagement, fosters inclusivity, and encourages healthy lifestyles. It also opens opportunities for women, who are often underrepresented in football, to shine in sports where gender participation is more balanced.
5. Reducing Overdependence on Football
Too much reliance on football limits the continent’s resilience in global sports. When football structures face political interference, corruption, or lack of funding—as seen in many African football federations—entire generations of athletes suffer. Spreading investment across multiple sports reduces this vulnerability and ensures continuity in nurturing talent.
6. Education and Scholarships
In many Western countries, sports like tennis, swimming, and track offer pathways to university scholarships. African students who excel in these areas are often able to study abroad and return with knowledge and skills that benefit their communities. A wider sports focus can create new academic and career routes for young Africans.
Conclusion
Africa’s passion for football is a powerful cultural and unifying force—but it shouldn’t limit the continent’s sporting future. By embracing a wide range of sports, Africa stands to gain economically, socially, and globally. Governments, private investors, and communities must shift mindset and policy to support this broader sporting vision. The next African sporting icon might not wear football boots—but instead sprint, swim, dunk, or serve their way to glory. It’s time to give them the platform.
By Ibrahim Bature Sallama
Empowered Newswire – Sports Editor
