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By idriss

Johan Cruyff Institute joins Sportsbiz Africa Forum to contribute its academic expertise

Through a collaboration agreement, Johan Cruyff Institute partners with Rwanda Events to bring its academic expertise to the Sportsbiz Africa Forum, an event aimed at promoting the sports industry in Africa

Sport is one of the fastest-growing industries in Africa. With an approximate value of $3.3 billion, this trend is expected to continue in the coming years, with key sectors such as sponsorship, sports tourism, and talent development driving growth. In this context, the Sportsbiz Africa Forum will be held on September 26 and 27, 2024, with the goal of accelerating the progress of the sports industry in Africa. Through a collaboration with Rwanda Events, the organizing company, the Johan Cruyff Institute will bring its academic expertise to this forum through a series of masterclasses. These classes will address key topics such as revenue generation in sports facilities, sports tourism, and sports sponsorship activation.

Christian Gakwaya, CEO of Rwanda Events Group, highlighted the importance of this agreement in promoting the sports industry in Africa: “Developing an economy around sports in Africa requires a qualified human resource capable of meeting the needs of the market and leading its growth. The SportsBiz Africa Forum’s masterclass program is a strategic response to this need for human resources. SportsBiz Africa Forum is partnering with the Johan Cruyff Institute, as its academic certification partner for its inaugural edition slated for September 26th to 28th 2024 in Kigali, Rwanda.”

Cristina Pales, Marketing Director at Johan Cruyff Institute, and Yannick L. Olimbo Diouf, Project Manager of Marketing, Sponsorship, and Partnership at Sportsbiz Africa.

Cristina Pales, Marketing Director at Johan Cruyff Institute, and Yannick L. Olimbo Diouf, Project Manager of Marketing, Sponsorship, and Partnership at Sportsbiz Africa.

Held in Kigali, Rwanda, the Sportsbiz Africa Forum aims to help position the sports industry by training African talent to transform the investment landscape across the continent. The event will consist of five distinct segments: Conference, Exhibition, Masterclass, Mini Tournaments, and Social Events. With the goal of boosting the African sports industry, the Forum will focus on key topics such as talent development, sports management innovation, and sports infrastructure growth. Attendees from all sectors of the sports industry are expected: club owners and executives, sports agents, tour operators, investment agencies, among others.

The four masterclasses taught by the Johan Cruyff Institute at the Sportsbiz Africa Forum will combine theoretical knowledge with practical applications in the professional field. This approach will provide attendees with valuable insights and opportunities to enhance their professional skills. The masterclasses will cover the following topics:

Revenue Generation in Sports Venues

Sports venues are crucial for generating income for teams, leagues, and the sports industry in general. This masterclass will analyze various innovative strategies and resource optimization techniques to significantly enhance the revenue streams of these venues.

Sport Tourism: Boosting Economic Impact and Growth

Sport tourism is a dynamic sector that combines the excitement of sports with the exploration of new destinations. By attracting fans, athletes, and event organizers from around the world, sport tourism generates substantial revenue and stimulates local economies. This masterclass will examine the significant contribution of sport tourism to the economy.

Sustainability in Sport

In recent years, the role of sustainable practices in the sport industry has grown significantly. Sports events, facilities, and organizations are increasingly recognizing their environmental footprint and incorporating environmentally friendly practices. This masterclass will analyze these issues and the various social and political frameworks involved in sports.

Activating Sport Sponsorship and Maximizing Returns

Sport sponsorships are a powerful tool for brands to connect with their audience and foster loyalty. However, to reap benefits, companies must strategically activate these sponsorships and ensure they maximize their return on investment. This masterclass aims to address the different types of sponsorship and techniques to maximize returns and measure their impact.

This partnership between the Johan Cruyff Institute and Rwanda Events marks a significant step towards advancing the educational and professional landscape of sport management in Africa. The Sportsbiz Africa Forum, therefore, lays the foundation for future growth and development in the sports industry across the African continent.

 

By idriss

Tour du Rwanda Paves the Way for Business and Leisure Development: A Prelude to the SBA Forum

In recent years, the Tour de Rwanda has become a prominent cycling event and a catalyst for positive change in Rwanda. As the nation witnesses the convergence of sport and business, SportBiz Africa (SBA) recognizes the potential of such opportunities to elevate both sectors further.

Now firmly established on the international cycling calendar, the Tour du Rwanda has showcased Rwanda’s stunning landscapes and vibrant culture to a global audience. Beyond its sporting significance, the event drives economic development, creating a ripple effect that spans multiple industries, including tourism, hospitality, and local businesses both formal and informal.

One of the critical opportunities that has emerged is the boost to tourism. The Tour de Rwanda attracts participants and spectators worldwide, providing a unique opportunity to showcase the country’s natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. This influx of visitors contributes to the growth of the hospitality sector and boosts local businesses, creating a thriving environment for entrepreneurs.

The positive impact extends beyond the economic realm, as the Tour de Rwanda fosters community and national pride. The event encourages local involvement, with communities coming together to support the cyclists and celebrate the spirit of sportsmanship.

This unity strengthens social bonds and creates a conducive collaboration and business networking environment.

As Rwanda continues positioning itself as a hub for sports and business, the upcoming SBA Forum aims to provide more opportunities.

The SBA recognizes that events such as the Tour du Rwanda give a platform to showcase the country’s potential on a global scale.

The SBA Forum, scheduled for September 26-28 2024, will follow in the footsteps of these opportunities by fostering collaboration, innovation, and economic growth and showcasing the industry in numbers to unveil its untapped business potential.

The Sports Business Africa Forum will bring together business leaders, entrepreneurs, and stakeholders from various industries, providing a space for knowledge exchange and strategic partnerships.

The Forum aims to showcase the symbiotic relationship between sport and business and unlock new opportunities for both sectors by building on the success of events such as the Tour de Rwanda.

In conclusion, the Tour de Rwanda has not only raised Rwanda’s profile on the global stage but has also opened doors for economic development and community engagement.

As the SBA Forum approaches, there is palpable excitement about its business and leisure development prospects.

The SBA Forum is poised to contribute to Rwanda’s continued growth and success on the international stage by harnessing the energy generated by events like the Tour de Rwanda. Stay tuned and mark your calendars for the SBA Forum.

By idriss

Celebrating International Women’s Day and the contribution of women in sports

International Women’s Day, celebrated annually on March 8, is a robust global recognition of wom- en’s invaluable contributions and achievements in various fields. In sports, women continue redefining standards, breaking barriers, and inspiring gen- erations. Today, we celebrate the triumphs of women athletes and the trailblazers and leaders who have made significant contributions to the sports industry.

The contributions made by women in the sports world have been nothing short of extraordinary. Women have played a pivotal role at every level as athletes, coaches, administrators, and executives. Their determination, skill, and passion have not only elevated their respective sports but have also shattered stereotypes and paved the way for future generations.

As we commemorate International Women’s Day, SportsBiz Africa (SBA) proudly recognizes and celebrates the remarkable women who have left an indelible mark on the sports landscape. Their resilience, dedication, and achievements inspire us and align seamlessly with the ethos of the upcom- ing SBA Forum.

Mark your calendars for the SportsBiz Africa Forum, September 26-28, 2024. This dynamic event will bring together industry leaders, professionals, and enthusiasts to explore the synergies between sports and business. In particular, the SBA Forum is committed to amplifying women’s voices in the sports industry, recognizing their unique contributions, and providing a platform for empowerment.

The SBA Forum aligns with the principles of women’s empowerment by promoting inclusivity and creating opportunities for women to thrive in the sports business field. Through engaging discussions, mentorship programs, and networking opportunities, the Forum seeks to address the challenges faced by women in sports and provide avenues for growth and success.

A TRIBUTE TO WOMEN IN SPORTS

Clare Akamanzi,
Chief Executive Officer of NBA Africa

In closing, let this be a testament to the celebration of women in sports, a preview of the exciting opportunities at the SBA Forum, and a call to curiosity for what lies ahead in September. Stay tuned for updates on how the SBA Forum will continue championing women in sports and redefining the business landscape.

since December 27th 2023, Clare Akamanzi is an international trade and investment lawyer who has been a key player in Rwanda’s business ecosystem and promoting the tourism and innovation sectors. Under her leadership, Rwanda has undergone substantial business reforms that have promoted the country on the global business stage as celebrated through platforms www.sportsbiz.africa such as the World Bank’s Doing Business, her innovative way of doing business has initiated campaigns like “Visit Rwanda,” strategically positioning Rwanda as a tourism investment destination but also as a MICE lead on the continent. Success stories on her credit include among others the partnerships with global sports organizations, including Arsenal, PSG, NBA/BAL, Bayern Munich, and others.