DAR ES SALAAM-The highly anticipated inaugural season of the African Football League (AFL) commenced with a performance from the Iconic ALI KIBA from Tanzania, and the clash between Tanzania's Simba SC and Egypt's Al-Ahly at the Benjamin Mkapa National Stadium in Dar es Salaam, the clash which ended with a draw 2-2.
The tournament has not only captured the attention of football fans but also economists, who have highlighted the significant economic benefits that hosting the AFL can bring to the host countries.
Details around broadcasters, sponsors, and logistics are yet to be announced, but CAF previously promised $100 million in prize month, with $10 million for the winner.
During the general assembly, Motsepe said: “We have recognized for many years that African football players have been among the best in the world, but we have to improve the appeal of African football, its commercial viability, and its capacity to sustain itself.
The AFL, initiated by the Confederation of African Football (CAF) in partnership with FIFA, is designed to enhance the quality of African club football and make it more commercially viable. The prize money for the AFL includes:
1. 4 million USD for the winner
2. 3 million USD for the runner-up
3. 1.7 million USD for each semi-finalist and,
4. 1 million USD for each quarterfinalist.
CAF President Patrice Motsepe and FIFA's Gianni Infantino see the AFL as a crucial step in raising the profile and commercial appeal of African club football, potentially retaining more players on the continent and encouraging development in infrastructure.
Economists have underscored several economic advantages, including income generated from accommodation, the food and hospitality sector, tourism, and the transport sector.
Dr. Hildebrand Shayo, an economist and investment banker, emphasized the positive economic impact of international live sporting events like the AFL at the micro-level. He highlighted benefits such as strengthened infrastructure, increased tourism, income from ticket sales, radio and TV rights, and more.
Dr. Shayo stressed the importance of hosting regional sports events, as they provide an opportunity for the host country and local businesses to showcase their offerings to the world, both through direct experiences and media coverage. Hosting the AFL will stimulate local economies by utilizing hotels, restaurants, transportation networks, attractions, and services.
The Tanzania Tourist Board's Director General, Damasi Mfugale, noted that the AFL has the potential to boost sports tourism in the country. He emphasized that the soccer fraternity, along with extensive media coverage, will promote Tanzania's unique features, such as Mount Kilimanjaro and Tanzanian hospitality, to a global audience.
Dr. Delphine Kessy, a tourism expert and the Director of Research, Innovation, and Community Engagement at the Saint Augustine University of Tanzania (SAUT), highlighted the impact of Simba Sports Club's participation in the AFL on the country's image, drawing attention from a vast international audience.
Dr. Kessy recommended that the government and stakeholders invest in football academies to develop talents for future international tournaments and the World Cup. This investment in developing young talents will enable the country to compete in more international competitions.
The AFL's economic impact extends to the region, and its ripple effects are expected to benefit young players, coaches, sports operators, and the private sector. The event will be closely watched by over one billion people, and it represents a substantial leap forward for African club football.
