Sharaf Mahama, CEO of Legacy Rise Sports, presented a compelling case for investing in Africa’s sports sector during the Johns Hopkins Africa Business Conference in Washington DC.
His address focused on how athletic development could transform the continent’s global standing while creating economic opportunities.
Speaking on a panel about media and entertainment, Mahama described sports as Africa’s emerging soft power. “When African athletes succeed internationally, they challenge outdated perceptions about our continent,” he told attendees. His company works to develop athletes who can represent Africa’s talent and resilience both in competition and as cultural ambassadors.
During investor discussions, Mahama outlined the growth potential of Africa’s sports economy, which analysts project could surpass $20 billion by 2035. He noted the disconnect between Africa’s wealth of athletic talent and the lack of structured development systems. Legacy Rise Sports aims to bridge this gap through talent scouting, management services, and international exposure programs.
The executive highlighted his company’s initiatives, including boxing events featuring world-class athletes and musical performances. He also discussed programs that have helped young Ghanaian boxers compete abroad. Currently supporting more than 40 athletes, the organization plans to expand its training programs nationwide by 2030.
Mahama called for greater involvement from the African diaspora, noting their collective economic influence could help build sports infrastructure. His presentation at Johns Hopkins follows similar engagements at other prestigious institutions, signaling growing recognition of sports as a driver of African development.
The push for sports investment comes as Africa’s entertainment industries gain global attention. While challenges remain in funding and infrastructure, Mahama’s presentation framed athletic development as both an economic opportunity and a means to reshape international perceptions of the continent. As more African athletes achieve global recognition, their success stories may indeed become powerful tools for changing narratives about Africa’s potential.
