At the first edition of the NBA and BAL (Basketball Africa League) investor days, the Ivorian Minister of Sports, Adjé Silas Metch, brilliantly positioned Ivory Coast as the essential sports hub of West Africa.

Speaking at a high-level panel dedicated to the economics of sport and infrastructure development, the minister unveiled Ivory Coast's ambitions before an audience of international decision-makers.

A sports ecosystem transformed by massive investments

Mr. Metch highlighted the momentum generated by President Alassane Ouattara, which has enabled the country to develop world-class infrastructure. The Ivorian strategy rests on clear pillars:

1. The modernization of stadiums and sports complexes continues .
2. The progressive professionalization of all disciplines.
3. Opening the sector to private capital for profitable economic exploitation.

"We are translating President Ouattara's vision into concrete actions through the modernization of infrastructure, the progressive professionalization of sports disciplines, the opening of the sector to private investment and the economic exploitation of sports infrastructure," he stated.

A modern arena project that appeals to investors

Alongside his Angolan (Rui Luís Falcão Pinto de Andrade) and Ugandan (Peter Ogwang) counterparts, the Ivorian minister captivated the audience by addressing the economic potential of the African sports market.

The highlight of his speech? The announcement of plans to build a large, modern arena . This future complex, intended to host international competitions and major cultural events, immediately sparked concrete interest from several investors as soon as the session ended.

Heading to Abidjan

In response to this enthusiasm, Adjé Silas Metch officially invited global sports business players to participate in a prospecting mission to Abidjan to explore these market opportunities.

It is worth noting that the large Ivorian delegation present in Rwanda for this event is led by the Minister of State and Special Advisor to the President, Kobenan Kouassi Adjoumani. This strategic deployment confirms Côte d'Ivoire's ambition to establish itself as the future giant of sports business on the continent.