Major sporting events have consistently proven to be powerful catalysts for economic growth and development across Africa, leaving indelible legacies that extend far beyond the field of play. From the legendary 1974 "Rumble in the Jungle," which generated an estimated $100 million worldwide, to South Africa's transformative 2010 FIFA World Cup, contributing an estimated $3.6 billion to the national economy and creating over 415,000 jobs, these competitions consistently boost tourism, introduce new technologies, and develop critical infrastructure. Most recently, Côte d'Ivoire's successful 2024 African Cup of Nations saw government investment almost $ 1 billion in related infrastructure and tourism, further underscoring the significant financial commitments and returns associated with hosting world-class sporting spectacles. These events not only attract hundreds of thousands of international visitors, but also drive cross-sector capacity building, setting new benchmarks for operational excellence and national development. 

This panel will delve into the multifaceted economic impact of sport, exploring its direct contributions to job creation and its role in fostering innovation across various sectors, including the burgeoning e-sports landscape. The African sports market, currently valued at over $12 billion and projected to exceed $20 billion by 2035, presents immense opportunities. The rapidly growing e-sports market in the Middle East & Africa region alone is expected to reach $190.2 million by 2030, highlighting a dynamic new frontier for economic engagement. Panelists will examine the essential balance between robust physical infrastructure and critical operational elements that underpin successful global sporting events.