Africa's Game Changer: How the 2026 World Cup Is Transforming African Football Economics

By Maxwell DANSO BOAKYE , Qualified Accountant and Certified Global Investment Analyst. Maxwelldanso733@gmail.com

\xa0 Away from home yet more connected than ever to a fresh period of financial backing, business expansion, and environmentally responsible soccer progress .

The FIFA World Cup has officially started. Even though the competition is taking place thousands of miles away from Africa roughly 6,200 miles (10,000 kilometers) from the United States , 5,700 miles (9,200 kilometers) from Canada , and 6,800 miles (11,000 kilometers) from Mexico , depending on the host city it has, in many ways, emerged as one of the most significant World Cups in African football history.

The causes go much further than just the tune. With 90% of African countries taking part advancing to the elimination rounds , the continent has already achieved one of its most impressive group efforts in a World Cup. However, the importance of this competition goes beyond just goals netted or games secured. Just as crucial are the successes happening behind closed doors, during sponsor discussions, media rights agreements, and financial reports. This World Cup offers Africa a special chance to enhance both its standing in football and the monetary worth of its football system.

For African soccer, triumph in North America might go beyond just a sports victory. It has the potential to spark greater financial support, deeper business collaborations, improved international recognition, and lasting economic development.

Starting from 1998, the number of African teams participating in the World Cup has been limited to five (increasing to six in 2010 when South Africa, as the host country, secured automatic qualification). In contrast, Europe typically fielded between 13 and 16 teams each time, whereas South America had four or five assured spots even though it had fewer affiliated nations. With 54 football associations, Africa remained significantly under-represented. This lower participation led to fewer games, reduced revenue potential, smaller prizes, and consequently, less funding returning to African football.

Larger Competition, Greater African Allocation

The expansion from 32 to 48 teams goes beyond just altering the appearance of the competition structure. It signifies the most significant reallocation of financial prospects in FIFA's history.

The share allocated to Africa has risen from five certain spots for nine with the 10th team Democratic Republic of the Congo qualifying via the intercontinental playoffs, resulting in an approximate increase of 80–100% in representation.

The effects go well beyond involvement in sports.

Each extra African country that meets the criteria gains access to millions of dollars from FIFA, fresh sponsorship deals, greater TV coverage, and improved worldwide recognition for local football.

For the first time, almost one out of every five teams participating in the World Cup may be from Africa.

Increased Number of Teams Equals Higher Revenue

In the past, the economic advantages from the World Cup were mainly enjoyed by a limited number of African countries that regularly made it through, including Morocco, Ghana, Nigeria, Cameroon, Tunisia, and Senegal.

The extended version makes these chances more accessible.

Rather than five federations splitting FIFA's monetary benefits, up to ten African football associations might receive direct support.

This significantly expands the spread of financial resources from football throughout the continent.

Every new country that becomes eligible gains global recognition which typically takes many years to achieve, drawing in advertisers, boosting television income, and raising the worth of both athletes and the national soccer brand.

As a result, the economic influence goes further than just FIFA prize funds, giving rise to completely new commercial systems.

The Biggest Tournament Fund in FIFA's Past

The economic impact of the 2026 World Cup is enhanced by a record rise in tournament rewards.

The FIFA has revealed a complete competition prize pool of US$871 million , almost double the US$440 million released during the 2022 World Cup.

Each eligible country is assured:

• US$10 million for qualification.
• US$2.5 million in preparation funding.

This implies that each African nation participating in the competition gets a a minimum assured payment of $12.5 million USD prior to a kick being taken

The participation of ten countries has resulted in a certain increase in revenue. US$125 million .

African football has never had such a significant assured monetary gain entering a World Cup as now.

Matches Won Hold Increased Monetary Significance

Certification marks just the start.

The extended elimination structure greatly enhances the financial rewards for victorious squads.

\xa0\xa0\xa0\xa0\xa0\xa0\xa0\xa0\xa0\xa0\xa0\xa0\xa0 Qualification Guarantee	US$12.5M
Group Stage Exit	US$9M
Round of 32	US$11M
Round of 16	US$15M
Quarter-finals	US$19M

\xa0

*Champions -$50M

If a single African country makes a significant advancement in the tournament, it could bring in tens of millions of dollars in extra revenue, providing funds that have the potential to revolutionize football growth across a whole generation.

In contrast to earlier competitions, where advancing to the Round of 16 was mainly seen as a sports success, this will be particularly important financially in 2026.

The contrast reveals an extraordinary narrative.

Within only twenty years, the prize for securing the World Cup victory has risen from Between $20 million and $50 million thus a 150% increase .

Similarly important is the sharp increase in assured income, making involvement genuinely economically impactful.

The True Victors Belong to African Soccer Associations

In contrast with common belief, the funds awarded by FIFA are mainly distributed to national football federations instead of being given directly to individual athletes.

This implies that effective performances in the World Cup can support sustained growth in football.

Potential investments include:

• Building contemporary training facilities.
• Youth academy expansion.
• Women’s football programmes.
• Training for coaches and advancement of skills.
• Stadium upgrades.
• Grassroots football initiatives.

\xa0

More Than Soccer: An Economic Potential Across Continents

The financial consequences go further than just football governance.

Each extra African team brings more attention to the continent as a whole.

A greater number of television broadcasts feature African companies to international viewers.

Athletes receive greater transfer costs and salaries as scouts get more visibility.

Companies that provide financial support show increased readiness to fund national teams and local competitions.

Travel promotions, product sales, and business collaborations all gain an important global stage.

Why 2026 Marks Africa's World Cup

Earlier FIFA World Cups assessed Africa's achievements based on how many teams made it to the quarterfinals. The 2026 World Cup brings in a different standard: economic transformation .

More teams mean more revenue.More revenue means better infrastructure.

Improved facilities lead to more skilled athletes.

Top-tier athletes draw more financial support.

Increased funding enhances African football for future eras.

This is the positive loop that the enlarged FIFA World Cup enables.

Perhaps for the very first time in the history of FIFA, Africa's most significant achievement might not involve winning the cup. Instead, it could focus on using the event to develop a more robust, prosperous, and environmentally friendly football system throughout the continent.

This is why the 2026 FIFA World Cup holds more significance than just being another tournament for Africa.

It is, quite possibly, Africa’s World Cup .

Author: MAXWELL DANSO BOAKYE

The author holds qualifications as a Chartered Accountant and Chartered Global Investment Analyst. Committed to influencing the geo-economic and financial conversation in Ghana and the broader region, he utilizes his varied background to promote insights on finance, investments, and economic growth.

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Tea Stuck in Mombasa: Farmers Face Growing Losses

Approximately 1.7 million kilograms of tea intended for Sudan is still stuck in storage facilities in Mombasa, over a year since Sudan halted the importation of Kenyan tea.

The Kenya tea industry keeps experiencing financial setbacks due to the shutdown of the Sudanese market, ongoing restrictions on access to the Iranian market, and the implementation of a new tea tax based on product value. Traders have expressed concerns that these factors together are negatively affecting farmers, export businesses, and the nation's standing in the Mombasa Tea Auction.

Kenyan traders lament the loss of an $80 million opportunity in Iranian and Sudanese tea markets The East Africa Tea Trade Association (Eatta), responsible for overseeing the Mombasa Tea Auction, stated that the prohibition has had a severe impact on the BP1 tea category, mainly acquired by purchasers from Sudan. "We still hold over 1.7 million kilograms of tea intended for the Sudanese market, which were procured in April 2025, and remain labeled and kept in storage facilities in Mombasa," mentioned Eatta’s Managing Director, George Omuga.

The tea was specially packed for Sudanese customers, preventing exporters from rerouting the shipments without facing extra expenses. Purchasers still cover warehousing fees as the tea gradually deteriorates in quality and decreases in market worth during storage.

Apart from the stranded tea, importers had previously poured significant resources into basic and additional packing supplies labeled specifically for the Sudanese market, increasing their monetary setbacks."We possess packaging items valued at several hundred dollars meant for Sudanese tea. We can’t utilize them anymore. This constitutes a loss for us," mentioned Hussein Gulam, a tea seller based in Mombasa.

Eatta mentioned that following Sudan's implementation of the import restriction, the price of BP1 tea has not bounced back. Although certain shipments manage to reach Sudan via third countries after being restocked, this roundabout trading method greatly raises expenses."Farmers are struggling as prices remain low, whereas Sudanese customers end up paying considerably more once the tea passes through other nations before arriving in Sudan," Mr. Omuga stated.

Tea merchants are calling on the Kenyan administration to communicate with Sudanese officials to reinstate direct commerce, contending that Khartoum continues to be one of Kenya's key markets due to its closeness.

In contrast to numerous international markets, tea transported through the Port of Mombasa arrives in Sudan in just three to five days, positioning it as one of the quickest and most economical routes for exporting Kenyan tea.

Market Forces: The organization also voiced worry about Kenya's inability to restore access to the Iranian market, which has traditionally been one of the nation's major purchasers of Orthodox tea.

Even though the Orthodox Tea Auction began effectively in Mombasa in September 2025, those involved in the sector believe growing this area will face challenges unless commerce with Iran is revived.

They caution that extended delays might prompt Iranian purchasers to seek tea from rival production nations, diminishing Kenya's sustained standing in the high-quality Orthodox tea sector.

The sector is pushing manufacturers to shift their focus from conventional Crush, Tear and Curl (CTC) tea towards a greater output of Orthodox and premium varieties.

Mr. Omuga stated that worldwide output of CTC tea has exceeded consumer needs, leading to an imbalance that keeps prices low.

Increasing the output of Orthodox and specialized teas would enhance Kenya's range of products, distribute market risks more evenly, and enable farmers to achieve higher profits through high-value offerings.

The group also stated that dialogue with Iran must persist amid ongoing turmoil in the Middle East, emphasizing that commercial ties should remain intact as much as feasible.

Effect of levy Meanwhile, traders state that market conditions this year should have supported much higher tea prices.

Last year, Kenya's tea output fell by over 50 million kilograms, leading to lower stock levels carried forward into 2026.

Sri Lanka, Kenya's primary exporter rival, is expected to experience a drop in output ranging from 25% to 30% as a result of significant storm-related destruction in its tea-producing areas.

As resources become scarcer among two of the top global tea suppliers, market participants expected a significant rise in prices during the Mombasa Tea Auction.

This projection was interrupted when Nairobi implemented the tea tax in May 2026.

As per merchants, the market responded swiftly, with tea consumption decreasing in the initial two weeks following the policy launch, especially for high-quality teas manufactured east of the Rift Valley.

Rwandan tea makes an appearance at auctions while Kenyan supplies face accumulation due to export charges. Tea merchants link this drop to the choice of implementing the tax based on the worth of tea instead of the amount sold. They claim that a valuation-focused charge disadvantages premium teas by increasing their cost for purchasers, leading numerous global traders to seek out different providers. Consequently, consumers have started favoring teas from western Kenya, Rwanda, Burundi, Tanzania, and Uganda.

As per weekly updates from Eatta, the uptake of tea in nearby nations continues to be robust, surpassing 95% in Uganda and achieving full coverage in both Tanzania and Burundi.

Stakeholders in the industry claim that Kenyan farmers have experienced the highest impact from the tax, noting that high-quality tea produced in eastern regions of the Rift Valley has had difficulty recovering since May even though market demand has improved.

They believe that, in the absence of the tax, bid prices might have ranged from $2.70 to $2.80 per kilogram, backed by lower worldwide output and increased foreign demand.

Tea merchants are currently calling on the government to reconsider the tax and propose charging it based on quantity, or per kilogram, instead of depending on the price of the tea.

As per Eatta, a tax based on volume is the globally recognized approach and would prevent punishing those who produce more expensive teas, while also ensuring income for oversight purposes.

The Mombasa Tea Auction, catering to growers across 10 African nations, continues to be the area's most significant venue for tea transactions.

Key industry players have cautioned that without Kenya regaining important export markets and revising policies impacting competitiveness, local tea growers may continue to lose ground in the global market, even with positive worldwide supply trends. Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. Syndigate.info ).

Desert to Power: Key Contracts Signed for 1,373 km Transmission Line Between Mauritania and Mali

The African Development Bank observed the signing of three project execution agreements with the Manantali Energy Management Company (SOGEM), representing a significant step forward in advancing the 225 kV Mauritania-Mali Power Connection Initiative.

The agreements were finalized in April 2026 with SOGEM, the division of the Senegal River Basin Development Organization tasked with implementing significant power supply initiatives.

The 225 kV Mauritania-Mali Power Interconnection Initiative focuses on building a 225 kV high-tension electrical network connecting key regions across Mauritania and Mali, aiming to enhance the dependability of electric service, support cross-border energy exchange, and strengthen the consistency of both nations' power systems.

The acquisitions represent a major advancement in the execution of this initiative, which will aid in enhancing regional energy links and promote economic and social growth in both Mauritania and Mali.

Three pacts, finalized by SOGEM’s CEO, Julien Charles Bernard Sagna, along with the involved firms, will support the development of a 225 kV dual-circuit high-tension power line stretching from Kiffa-Tintane-Yélimané, an essential route linking Mauritania and Mali, to promote transnational energy exchange.

The event was attended by Mauritania's Minister of Economic Affairs and Development, Abdallah Ould Souleymane Cheikh Sidiya, Minister of Energy and Petroleum, Mohamed Ould Khaled, and Malinne Blomberg, Country Manager for Mauritania at the African Development Bank Group.

The contracts also encompass the building of the 225 kV dual-circuit high-voltage Tintane-Aioun transmission line, designed to enhance Mauritania's power network and increase electrical accessibility in the specified regions. Additionally, the agreements involve oversight and inspection services for the projects to guarantee adherence to technical requirements, quality benchmarks, and prompt execution of the initiative.

The initiative falls under the umbrella of the African Development Bank Group's Desert to Power Initiative which seeks to produce 10 gigawatts of solar power to bring electrical supply to 250 million individuals in eleven nations within the Sahel area, ranging from Senegal in the western part to Djibouti in the eastern section of Africa. It also supports the goals of Mission 300 - a collaborative effort between the African Development Bank Group and the World Bank Group, seeking to deliver power connectivity to 300 million individuals throughout Africa by 2030.

Praising the initiative as an "electric path of hope," Mohamed Ould Khaled highlighted that the project's initiation establishes the groundwork for a more unified regional power market "able to foster economic development and steadily enhance the quality of life for residents."

" The initiation of the project highlights the African Development Bank's ongoing dedication to aiding Sahel nations in attaining widespread electrical connectivity by 2030," stated Malinne Blomberg.

In total, the project aims to establish a 1,373-kilometer transmission link connecting the electrical networks of both nations. This initiative will enhance regional cooperation, enable the exchange of renewable energy—especially solar power—and contribute to widespread availability of dependable and cost-effective electricity.

In addition to its technological aspects, the initiative aims to lower expenses related to power generation, enhance energy safety, foster industrial and economic growth in the regions it serves, and gradually elevate the quality of life for residents. It is anticipated that the project will be finished by 2030.

© 2026 African Development Bank. All rights reserved. Published by AllAfrica Global Media (Ants).

Tagged: Construction, Mauritania, Mali, Economy, Business and Finance, Energy, Industry and Infrastructure, West Africa

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Unlocking Africa’s Agro-Minerals & Natural Gas for Fertilizer Investment Growth

What Workshop titled "Unlocking Africa's Agro-minerals and Natural Gas to Boost Investments in Fertilizer Supply Chains"

Who: African Centre for Natural Resource Management and Investment (ECNR) and African Fertilizer Finance Mechanism (AFFM)

When: July 4, 2026, at 9:00 AM – 10:30 AM UTC

Where: Join us available online through this Zoom link

The African Natural Resources Management and Investment Centre (ECNR), together with the African Fertiliser Financing Mechanism (AFFM), is organizing an online seminar entitled "Unlocking Africa's Agro-minerals and Natural Gas to Stimulate Investments in Fertilizer Supply Chains for Enhanced Resilience and Food Security."

The online seminar will address one critical issue: What steps can be taken to consistently transform Africa’s local agro-minerals and natural gas reserves into materials used for fertilizers, thereby decreasing the region's expensive reliance on imports and enhancing food safety?

Referencing the research " Analysis of the agro-mineral and natural gas supply chains to enhance food security in Africa The online seminar will highlight Africa's natural resources capabilities, examine major challenges within fertilizer supply chains, and investigate practical policies and funding options. Additionally, it will offer an interactive forum to evaluate and enhance the research findings by involving prominent figures from the business world, financial institutions, and government sectors.

© 2026 African Development Bank. All rights reserved. Published by AllAfrica Global Media (Ants).

Tagged: Africa, Economy, Business and Finance, Mining, Investment, Food and Agriculture

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Lake Chad Basin and AfDB Unveil Major Initiative to Revive the Shrinking Lake

Last May, the African Development Bank Group, the Lake Chad Basin Commission (CBLT), and the commission’s five member nations initiated a $10 million technical assistance initiative aimed at preparing the necessary investments to revive the environmental and economic roles of Lake Chad and enhance the durability of life for millions relying on its resources.

The Project for Technical Assistance in Restoring the Ecological and Economic Functions of the Lake Chad Basin (PARFEBALT) supported by the African Development Fund, along with extra funding from the CBLT which covers 10% of the project’s overall expenses, aims to increase understanding of the basin's water resources and strengthen their management.

At the start of the project initiation workshop, Passalet Kanabé Marcelin, Chad's Minister responsible for Water and Energy and currently leading the CBLT Council of Ministers, highlighted that the Lake Chad region plays a crucial role for millions of individuals, with their daily lives closely tied to access to water, farming activities, fishery, and animal husbandry.

PARFEBALT is a technical support initiative, yet primarily, it focuses on preparing for what lies ahead: its objective is to enhance understanding of water resources, upgrade management practices related to water and ecosystems, and establish the prerequisites needed to secure financing for an impactful regional investment strategy. Minister Marcelin mentioned, emphasizing the critical role of the initiative in addressing the cumulative impacts of climate change, environmental decline, and increasing demands on limited resources.

Participants at the workshop examined technical reports that will inform upcoming investments within the basin. These studies aim to explore methods for enhancing water flow in the Chari-Logone and Komadougou-Yobe river systems, which supply the majority of Lake Chad’s incoming water, while considering environmentally sound approaches to increase the lake's water levels. Additionally, they will analyze ecological, climate-related, economic, and societal aspects to determine the most effective strategies for revitalizing the region.

Acknowledging the increasing effects of climate change, the initiative aims to create a regional early-alert system to enhance predictions of floods and droughts, as well as implement advanced technologies for modeling and managing water resources. These actions will offer CBLT member countries more accurate information to shape their water management strategies and boost community resilience.

On behalf of the African Development Bank Group, Francis Dogo, the Country Manager for Chad, emphasized the critical need to address long-standing environmental damage within the region.

Lake Chad, among Africa’s major sources of fresh water, has experienced a substantial reduction in its size over the past few decades, decreasing from 25,000 square kilometers in 1960 to approximately 2,500 square kilometers at its lowest points, though there have been some improvements recently. Dogo said.

He pointed out that frequent droughts and flooding, excessive use of natural resources, disputes between agriculturalists and livestock keepers, and instability still pose risks to the region, emphasizing that improved cross-border water administration is crucial for promoting regional unity, improving food safety, and strengthening community endurance.

Attendees concurred that the research and instruments created within the PARFEBALT initiative would set the stage for attracting significant funding to revive the lake's water systems, rejuvenate farming, animal husbandry, and fishing activities, lessen populations' susceptibility to climate-related disruptions, and support peace in an area inhabited by over 40 million individuals.

The seminar ended with suggestions aimed at improving dialogue regarding the initiative to aid funding acquisition, speed up the implementation of national contact persons, bolster the Technical Monitoring Committee through added top-tier knowledge, and improve methods for tracking and assessing the project.

Stressing the African Development Bank's ongoing dedication to the project, Dogo stated: "We have an obligation to achieve success, and we will accomplish it."

© 2026 African Development Bank. All rights reserved. Published by AllAfrica Global Media (Ants).

Tagged: Economy, Business and Finance, Central Africa, Oceans and Rivers, International Organizations and Africa, Environment, External Relations

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RSF Claims Sudan Army Drone Destroyed Key Darfur Bridge

June 9, 2026 (EL GENEINA) – A civil authority linked to the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) in Western Darfur claimed that the Sudanese military destroyed the key Ardamata bridge through a drone attack on Tuesday.

An assault on the bridge in the state capital, El Geneina, occurred just days following another incident that damaged the Kiga bridge, an important passage linking Dilling with Kadugli in South Kordofan region.

The local authority in Western Darfur denounced the early-morning attack in a declaration, labeling it as a clear danger to people’s safety and a deliberate attack on essential regional facilities.

The Ardamata bridge serves as a key transportation route for delivering humanitarian assistance, provisions, and medical equipment from the Adre border point with Chad into the areas of Darfur and Kordofan.

Organizations within the United Nations and global humanitarian groups rely on this passage to provide critical support to numerous displaced individuals and those impacted by conflicts.

Authorities at the local level cautioned that demolishing the bridge shortly before the rainy season could significantly impede the delivery of assistance, possibly leading to a severe humanitarian crisis and disrupting activities throughout Darfur.

The government urged United Nations organizations and global human rights institutions to denounce the damage inflicted on civil structures and take action to maintain the flow of humanitarian routes.

The Sudanese military and the RSF have become more dependent on aerial combat in regions like Darfur and Kordofan, as intensified attacks have caused significant harm to essential facilities such as medical centers, educational institutions, and water treatment sites.

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Faith Leaders Intervene to Stop Xenophobic Attacks in George

Anti-immigrant demonstrations have already resulted in fatalities along the Garden Route.

Last month in Mossel Bay, many homes were set ablaze and two individuals lost their lives in an incident involving... violent xenophobic protest .

Protests in the same area have led to hundreds of migrants being affected. repatriate to Malawi and Mozambique.

Near the Garden Route city of George, located 50 kilometers from Mossel Bay, local officials worry about increasing hostility toward immigrants and fear that violent incidents may soon occur.

During Sunday night, hundreds of individuals participated in an event hosted by an organization named Qina Mhlali (strong residents) at the All Bricks community center located in Thembalethu, a neighborhood near George. The venue was filled to capacity, with many others standing outside.

During the days before the gathering, a post was shared online. Mabahambe "Go away!" the sign stated.

As a reply, the Thembalethu Pastor's Fraternal issued an open letter urging for composure and condemning aggression. "Today the Lord places a responsibility upon us: to speak and take action against xenophobia in our neighborhoods," stated the open letter.

On Friday, the chairman of the organisation, Pastor Boyce Saleni, convened a gathering with the event coordinators and Mayor Browen Johnson from George, along with representatives from the business association and the South African National Civic Organisation (SANCO).

The decision was made to invite Home Affairs Minister Leon Schreiber to visit George later this month to speak about the community's issues.

Unemployment is high in the Southern Cape, and residents are uneasy," Saleni said to GroundUp. "They believe they're losing their jobs while foreigners are employed and managing businesses.

"The church has clearly stated that foreigners should be safeguarded. We oppose any violence or loss of life. The legal process needs to proceed as intended," he mentioned.

Individuals who were interviewed by GroundUp stated that certain sectors within the town have been taken over by immigrants, many of whom, according to them, lack legal authorization to work in South Africa.

Two years prior, an apartment complex in downtown George collapsed During the construction phase, 34 individuals lost their lives, with at least 26 being migrants. Out of the 28 survivors, most sustained injuries, some resulting in long-term impairments. Numerous workers lacked proper authorization to be employed in South Africa and were not eligible for UIF benefits or compensation from the funds.

The community gathering held on Sunday afternoon in Thembalethu became intense. Certain individuals arrived carrying sjamboks and knobkieries, ready for confrontational behavior. A foreigner who happened to be nearby was pursued and intimidated.

The event organizers soothed the audience.

"A number of community members wished to take action right after the meeting, yet this wasn’t the intention behind the assembly," noted Bathini Malobola, a coordinator with Qina Mhlali.

"Our agreement is that we will wait until 19 June before taking any action," he said. Protest action might follow, he warned.

"The appropriate authorities have been provided with a chance to resolve our issues. We will follow the law," stated Mandlenkosi Kopana, the vice-chair of Qina Mhlali.

Nomaphuthukezi Mditshwa, a local from Thembalethu who participated in the gathering, stated that her neighbor, who started a small shop, struggled to match the competition from foreign-run stores offering cheaper products.

"we aren't engaging in conflict, yet we're stating that foreigners ought to go back to their home nations. we'll await the minister's statement," she mentioned.

Some people present stated that immigrants were dealing narcotics.

Following the meeting, a group of men, some of whom were intoxicated, separated from the others and moved towards the town area. The GroundUp photographer was advised against pursuing them. One individual held up a stick that had nails driven into it.

A SAPS representative from the Southern Cape, Warrant Officer Christopher Spies, stated that authorities broke up a group that turned unruly on Sunday night. A case of public disorder was initiated, though no one was taken into custody.

"The police respect the right of citizens to protest, but any acts of violence or incitement to violence will not be tolerated," said Spies.

He mentioned that the Public Order Police had arrived and were remaining highly vigilant.

Individuals from abroad who have resided in this region for many years are thinking about going back to their homeland, yet they don't have enough money to make the trip.

"Ever since I came to South Africa, I haven't faced issues with the local community. However, things have changed recently," mentioned a Zimbabwean merchant who preferred anonymity. She noted that in the last couple of months, there has been a decrease in customers from the area.

She mentioned she planned to shut down her store earlier on Sunday, "as I am worried about what could occur."

Jose Mabunda, hailing from Mozambique, has been residing in South Africa since 2015, though he is currently thinking about going back to his homeland. He was among those affected by the structural failure in 2024.

"I'm frightened. If I had the funds, I'd depart right now. I arrived here to work and provide for my family. I'm not here to steal job opportunities from South Africans," he stated.

Mussa Duad, hailing from Malawi, expressed concerns over the uncertain situation affecting his future. "I am married to a South African woman and have a six-year-old daughter. If I decide to go away, who will look after them?" he questioned.

A person from Ghana, who chose to remain anonymous, stated, 'We accept that if we have to go back, we will.' However, 'returning home requires funds that most of us lack.'

The SANCO regional chairman, Xolisani Booi, advised citizens against taking justice into their own hands.

"None of the community members have the authority to review papers or implement immigration regulations," he stated.

He cautioned that certain people might be exploiting public dissatisfaction for political gain.

He mentioned his concern that there are groups present who are attempting to escalate this matter due to their desire for political influence.

The mayor of George, Browen Johnson, remained unavailable for comment prior to the release since he was participating in meetings in Cape Town.

© 2026 GroundUp. All rights reserved. Published by AllAfrica Global Media (Ants).

Tagged: South Africa, Religion, Migration, Southern Africa

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Somali WC Ref Gets Hero's Welcome After U.S. Visa Denial

A Somali official named Omar Artan was celebrated as a hero in Mogadishu on Wednesday following his exclusion from the U.S. and subsequent removal from FIFA's refereeing roster for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Artan, poised to be the first Somalian official to referee at a World Cup, came back to a welcoming crowd including numerous fans, government representatives, and individuals from Somalia's soccer scene at Aden Adde International Airport.

A respected official, who was recognized as Africa's Top Male Referee in 2025, has secured a position on FIFA's ultimate list of referees for the competition.

Nevertheless, he was not allowed to enter when he arrived at Miami International Airport on Saturday because of "vetting issues" according to U.S. Customs and Border Protection. Additional information was not shared.

FIFA later took Artan off its list of referees for the World Cup. The Somali Embassy in Kenya stated that he received a legitimate U.S. visa prior to his travel to meet other officials at their World Cup preparation site in Miami.

After coming back, Artan appreciated the Somali population, authorities, and FIFA for their assistance, and stated he believes his World Cup aspiration continues to be possible.

I pledge to you, with Allah's permission, that I will be present at the next event," said Artan to supporters who were holding Somali flags at the airport. "I hope the Somalian people find reassurance in this and continue to have faith.

Artan was accompanied by law enforcement officials to the airport's executive lounge, where he was received by Somalia's sport minister and various high-ranking guests prior to speaking with regional journalists.

It is our responsibility to protect the Somali identity," he stated. "Somalia is ours, regardless of whether it is in a difficult situation or a favorable one. That flag is ours, and that passport is also ours.

The choice of refusing access to a World Cup representative selected by FIFA drew global backlash and prompted certain analysts to question the U.S.'s position as co-host along with Canada and Mexico.

Several nations, including Somalia, have been impacted by the broader U.S. travel bans implemented during the tenure of former President Donald Trump.

Although he was unable to participate in the tournament, Artan's success has received significant recognition throughout Africa and further afield. Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, head of the World Health Organization, commended the Somalian official recently, stating that his groundbreaking achievement remains valid despite the situation.

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