The sports industry in Africa is a global economic powerhouse, with more than $30 billion in private equity invested in Africa in 2022 and accounting for roughly 2% of global GDP. Global sports leaders like FIFA, the NBA, and the NFL are making significant investments in Africa while Formula 1 and UFC are beginning to explore greater recognition and the economic potential as they grow their viewers. This panel will look further into how sports in Africa can boost economic growth as well as benefit other sectors including health, education, social inclusion, and youth and women’s empowerment. It will highlight the direct economic value related to Africa’s sports sector, including greater investment in sports infrastructure and the cultural impact of diaspora sports stars on how the African sports industry is viewed globally.