Shaping Africa's Future: Zriat discusses the impact of the African Education Through Sport Summit with sportanddev

As the third edition of the African Education Through Sport Summit draws near, Tibu Africa is preparing to host one of the most important events focused on the transformative power of sport for development. The summit, which has evolved into a continental platform for innovation and collaboration, will bring together over 100 global experts and 5,000 participants in 2025. 

Tibu Africa’s Founding President, Mohamed Amine Zriat, sat down with sportanddev to share insights into how the summit has grown since its inception, the impact it aims to create, and the exciting new initiatives on the horizon.

The upcoming summit will spotlight innovative programs focused on expanding access to education, employment, and social inclusion through sport. With dynamic discussions, interactive sessions, and hands-on activations, the event will foster impactful partnerships that shape lasting policies and initiatives for Africa’s youth. Key highlights include a social innovation fair, immersive training workshops, and policy dialogues aimed at bridging the gap between decision-makers and grassroots organizations, paving the way for sustainable development across the continent.

In this exclusive interview, Zriat discusses the evolution of Tibu Africa, the role of sport in addressing Africa's pressing challenges, and the future of the education-through-sport ecosystem.

Q&A with Tibu Africa founder Mohamed Amine Zriat

1. The African Education through Sport Summit is in its third edition. How has the event grown since its inception, and what impact do you hope this year's edition will achieve?

Since its inception, the African Education through Sport Summit has evolved from a national dialogue to a continental platform for collaboration, innovation, and systemic change. We began with a simple yet ambitious vision—to bring together changemakers who believe in sport as a powerful educational tool. Today, we are proud to welcome over 100 international experts and 5,000 participants for the 2025 edition. This year, we aim to generate bold partnerships, launch high-impact initiatives, and influence public policy that will accelerate the use of sport as a driver of sustainable development across Africa.

2. Morocco is known for its vibrant youth population. What is Tibu Africa's vision, and how do you reflect on the past years of using sport as a tool for social change?

Tibu Africa’s vision is to become the locomotive of sport for development in Africa by 2030. We focus on empowering youth and women through innovative programs in education, employability, entrepreneurship, and leadership—all through the power of sport. Reflecting on our journey, I’m proud of how we’ve built safe spaces, improved academic outcomes, supported young entrepreneurs, and created pathways to employment. Every story of a young person gaining confidence, finding purpose, or transforming their community through sport fuels our mission.

3. Why is the Education Through Sport Summit in Africa so important, and what makes the third edition particularly special?

This summit is crucial because it responds to the unique challenges and opportunities facing African youth. Sport offers a transformative space to address education gaps, social inequalities, and economic exclusion. What makes the third edition particularly special is its scale, diversity of speakers, and the launch of new programs—including a social innovation fair and immersive training workshops. Most importantly, it is being held in a context where the continent is calling for urgent, innovative solutions—and we are here to co-create them.

This summit is crucial because it responds to the unique challenges and opportunities facing African youth. It is being held in a context where the continent is calling for urgent, innovative solutions—and we are here to co-create them.

4. This year's summit is dynamic—global experts, interactive sessions, and Run4Peace, a solidarity race promoting social cohesion and peace through sport. How does this event embody the summit's overall vision?

The summit embodies our vision by being both inclusive and action-oriented. Every session, whether a panel, training, or the Run4Peace event, is designed to spark dialogue, inspire action, and build bridges. Run4Peace, in particular, reflects our belief that sport is more than competition—it is a vehicle for unity, peace, and hope. When thousands of people run together for peace, it sends a powerful message: Africa is moving forward, together.

5. Tibu Africa has been a leader in using sport as a tool for education and social transformation. What inspired you to create this organization, and how has your vision evolved over the years?

Tibu Africa was born out of a personal journey—a deep belief that sport saved me and could save others. Growing up, basketball gave me a sense of belonging, discipline, and purpose. I realized that if we could systematize this experience and combine it with education and social services, we could change lives at scale. Over the years, my vision has expanded. Today, we are not just using sport to inspire; we’re building ecosystems, influencing policy, and shaping the next generation of African changemakers.

6. As someone deeply involved in this movement, what is your long-term vision for the education-through-sport ecosystem in Africa?

My long-term vision is to see sport fully recognized as a critical pillar in education, economic inclusion, and peacebuilding across the continent. I envision a future where sport is integrated into school curricula, public policies, and youth employment strategies. I see a continent where coaches are educators, where sports centers are hubs for innovation, and where every child—regardless of background—has access to opportunities through sport.

7. What message would you like to share with young African leaders and changemakers looking to use sport as a tool for development?

To all the young leaders out there: never underestimate the power of sport to change lives—including your own. If you have a vision, chase it. If you see a problem, design a solution. Use sport not just to win games, but to win justice, inclusion, and opportunity. Africa is a continent of youth, energy, and creativity—it's our time to lead, and sport is our tool to do it.