Sport is perceived differently by different people, some seeing it as a chore, while others see it as a liberating, even addictive, activity. Beyond any perception, sport turns out to be much more than any one person's opinion could describe.
The close link between sport and a country's GDP:
Sports have a universal character, transcending national and cultural boundaries. Indeed, it serves as a powerful economic driver for many countries, with a significant impact on their gross domestic product (GDP). This observation is particularly evident through globally renowned sports events such as the Olympics, the Africa Cup of Nations, or the Champions League, which attract millions of spectators and generate substantial economic benefits. For example, in 2021, Cameroon experienced a significant increase in the number of tourists. During the same Africa Cup of Nations, the host country saw a 30% increase in the number of tourists compared to the previous year, according to Afriksportmagazine, representing an increase of over 100,000 visitors. These tourists contributed to injecting approximately 100 billion CFA francs (about 150 million euros) into the local economy, according to the Cameroonian Ministry of Tourism.
Where there's a tournament, there's infrastructure: sustainable investment for AFCON
Hosting major tournaments often requires significant investment in sports infrastructure, such as the construction or renovation of stadiums and other related facilities. For example, for the 2023 African Cup of Nations, Côte d'Ivoire allocated a budget of "79 million dollars, 84 million dollars and 113 million dollars respectively for the construction of new stadiums in Yamoussoukro, Korhogo and Abidjan, including the Alassane Ouattara Olympic Stadium, while the renovation of the Félix Houphouët-Boigny Stadium in Abidjan cost a further 109 million dollars", according to BBC NEWS AFRICA . Cameroon, for its part, has invested more than 979 million CFA francs (around 1.5 million euros) in the construction and renovation of stadiums, airports, roads and hotels for the 2021 African Cup of Nations. These investments are helping to create local jobs and stimulate the economy during and even after the event.
Sports : An economic and Social Factor
In team sports like AFCON, it is very rare to find that all team members are of the same nationality or belong to the same social group. Sports act as a catalyst for inclusion. By promoting values such as listening, teamwork, fair competition, and trust in teammates, it offers everyone a sense of integration, belonging to a group, and self-confidence. It goes even further by fostering cultural and social interactions. Tournaments like Accra 2023, Paris 2024 Olympics bring together fans from all backgrounds, creating a sense of community belonging and unity. Stadiums become spaces of inclusion where people gather to support their favorite team, regardless of their socio-economic or cultural background.
Sport as a source of inspiration
In conclusion, sport is a powerful source of inspiration, as demonstrated by the inspiring example of Noélie Yarigo, who stands as a role model for hundreds of young Beninese women. This inspiration bears witness to sport's unique ability to transcend geographical and cultural boundaries, elevating individuals to excellence. By helping people to surpass themselves and encouraging solidarity, sport offers a path towards a future where conflicts and cultural differences fade away to make way for unity and prosperity.
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