Qatar Stakeholders Explore Opportunities Ahead of ‘SportsBiz Africa 2025’

A diverse group of stakeholders representing Qatar’s thriving sports, investment, and innovation sectors gathered in Doha recently to explore opportunities to be presented at the ‘SportsBiz Africa Forum 2025’ (SBA2025), scheduled on September 9-10 in Kigali, Rwanda.

Organised by Rwanda Events, in partnership with the Rwanda Convention Bureau, the networking event aimed to foster partnerships, promote investment opportunities, and share insights on the latest advancements in these interrelated fields during (SBA2025).

The event was highlighted by presentations, a panel discussion, and a first look at SBA2025’s initiatives, under the theme of sport as a catalyst for sustainable development.

It also emphasised deepening ties between Rwanda and Qatar, underscoring shared ambitions to shape the global sports agenda through investment, knowledge exchange, and strategic co-operation.

The upcoming SBA2025 aligns closely with the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDG 8) and the African Union’s Agenda 2063, according to Christian Gakwaya, CEO of Rwanda Events.

“Rwanda Events is committed to promoting inclusive industry growth, sustainable development, and the use of sport as a tool for socioeconomic progress.

 That’s why we’re here, not just to celebrate sport, but to spark partnerships, unlock capital, and explore the tremendous untapped potential of Africa’s sports economy,” Gakwaya pointed out in his speech.

The panel discussion titled ‘Africa: The Next Sports Investment Frontier’ unpacked Africa’s readiness to attract and sustain investment in sports infrastructure, talent development, and innovation.

The networking event also introduced SBA2025’s ‘Dealroom’, a new platform designed to connect investors with high-potential ventures across the sports ecosystem. It also offered a preview of an education programme led by the Johan Cruyff Institute, which will equip young African professionals with the skills to build and scale sports-related businesses.

Gakwaya noted that stakeholders from Doha expressed “strong enthusiasm” for SBA2025 as “interest and anticipation for the forum continue to build,” describing the event as a “marketplace of ideas and investment” and “as a critical platform for shaping Africa’s sports narrative on a global stage.”