Benin Stakes Its Claim As Africa’s Next Hub For Tourism And Investment With PFL Africa Finals

Nkosi Ndebele after defeating Simbarashe Hokonya via split decision (27-30, 29-28 x2) in a Bantamweight Semifinal Bout.

Supplied/PFL Africa

In just a few weeks, the Republic of Benin will host the inaugural Professional Fighters League (PFL) Africa Finals, a landmark moment for both the continent’s combat sports scene and the nation’s emergence on the global stage. Though this event is about far more than punches, takedowns, and championship belts, it signals Benin’s entry into a growing league of nations that view sport not merely as entertainment, but as a strategic engine for economic growth, tourism, and international visibility. With this championship, Benin is asserting itself as a dynamic hub where culture, investment, and global opportunity converge in the vibrant city of Cotonou.

Hosting the PFL Africa Finals is a defining moment for the country, one that extends far beyond sport. In an interview with Forbes.com, Mr Sindé Chekete, CEO of Benin Tourism, described it as “a powerful affirmation of the country’s stability, ambition, and rapidly expanding international influence. Welcoming PFL Africa to Cotonou offers a rare opportunity to showcase a nation undergoing deep transformation, driven by bold reforms, world-class cultural initiatives, and sustained investments in modern infrastructure.”

The stakes of the tournament are equally historic: four PFL Africa Championship belts will be awarded across the Heavyweight, Welterweight, Featherweight, and Bantamweight divisions. Each division winner will claim a $100,000 grand prize, one of the highest payouts for professional athletes in sub-Saharan Africa, and earn the title of inaugural PFL Africa Tournament Champion, securing a path into the PFL global ecosystem.

PFL Africa as Part of a Strategic National Vision

The partnership with PFL Africa aligns closely with Benin’s broader tourism and investment strategy. Chekete explained: “This partnership aligns seamlessly with our broader tourism and investment strategy. Benin is intentionally leveraging culture, sports, and flagship events as strategic drivers to expand its visibility and attract visitors, investors, and global brands.”

Since 2016, the government has invested heavily in infrastructure to support tourism, including upgrades to airports, hotels, and transport networks. Cultural festivals such as Vodun Days and strategic partnerships with global travel platforms complement these efforts. Together, they form the backbone of Benin’s ambition to become a competitive destination for both leisure and business tourism.

Benin was selected to host the PFL Africa Finals because of a combination of strategic geography, upgraded infrastructure, and commitment to sports development. Chekete noted: “Over the past several years, significant improvements to our airport, hotel portfolio, and transport networks have reinforced international confidence in Benin as a reliable and sophisticated host. Just as importantly, Benin embraces innovation and recognises the economic and diplomatic potential of sports as a driver of global engagement.”

Sports as an Engine for Economic Growth

Across Africa, sports are increasingly recognised as a strategic lever for economic diversification, beyond entertainment alone. As Chekete elaborated: “Benin considers sports to be a highly strategic catalyst for tourism, economic growth, and international visibility. Major sporting events have the ability to shift perceptions, attract new audiences, and stimulate a broad spectrum of economic sectors, from hospitality and leisure to transport, retail, and creative industries.”

The PFL Africa Finals, broadcast across French-speaking Africa via CANAL+, will place Benin on a continental stage, amplifying its visibility. Local businesses and the hospitality sector are expected to benefit directly. Chekete emphasised: “At the local level, we anticipate increased hotel occupancy, a boost in demand for hospitality services, expanded opportunities for small businesses, and renewed investor interest across tourism, entertainment, events, and related industries.”

Government and private-sector initiatives are designed to capture the full economic potential of major sporting events. Chekete shared: “The Ministry of Sports is actively investing in community facilities and infrastructure that support long-term sports development. At the same time, we at Benin Tourism are working closely with hotels, travel companies, and local entrepreneurs to design packages, fan experiences, merchandising opportunities, and city-wide programming that allow the tourism economy to fully benefit from these events.”

Combat sports, particularly MMA, play a central role in this vision. MMA is expanding rapidly worldwide, driven by a digitally connected, youthful audience. Benin aims to harness this momentum to attract adventurous, culturally engaged visitors. Chekete added: “Positioning combat sports within our tourism development plan is therefore a strategic choice: it allows us to tap into a growing global fanbase, strengthen youth engagement, and showcase Benin as a destination where tradition, athletic excellence, and cultural identity converge.”

Infrastructure and Long-Term Planning

The PFL Africa Finals arrive at a pivotal moment in Benin’s infrastructure development. Since 2016, the country has worked to build a modern tourism ecosystem capable of hosting major international events. Chekete highlighted: “This long-term effort has led to significant upgrades across our hotel infrastructure, transportation networks, and cultural venues. The Sofitel Cotonou Marina Hotel & Spa, a flagship of contemporary luxury hospitality in Africa, stands as a clear example of this transformation and reflects the standard of excellence we aim to uphold for global visitors.”

Beyond existing facilities, Benin is expanding to accommodate future international competitions. The Arena of Cotonou, currently under construction, is a multipurpose venue designed for sporting events, global entertainment productions, and large-scale cultural programming. Chekete noted: “This development exemplifies Benin’s long-term commitment to building infrastructure that meets global standards while driving economic opportunity and community development.”

Sustainability and community impact are central to the planning of these events. Collaboration with local operators, international partners, and community stakeholders ensures lasting benefits through job creation, skills transfer, and enduring economic activity.

Combat Sports Culture and Talent Development

Benin’s combat sports tradition is deeply intertwined with its cultural history. Chekete recounted the legacy of the Amazons of Danxomè, the all-female military regiment renowned for their discipline and hand-to-hand combat prowess: “Their legacy continues to shape the cultural identity of the country and inspires a deep respect for martial arts as a pathway to strength, courage, and self-mastery.”

Today, a growing number of clubs, trainers, and youth programs reflect rising interest among young Beninese athletes seeking personal development, competitive excellence, and international exposure. The Beninese Federation of MMA and Associated Disciplines has been pivotal in structuring the sport nationally, setting standards, and building international partnerships. Chekete said, “Their involvement in this inaugural event underscores Benin’s commitment to building a credible, sustainable, and competitive combat sports environment.”

Hosting the PFL Africa Finals is expected to inspire the next generation of athletes. Young Beninese witnessing world-class fighters in Cotonou will gain exposure to global MMA circuits. To support this momentum, the government and federation are investing in training programs, capacity-building initiatives, and long-term athlete development strategies. Chekete added: “Ultimately, our goal is clear: to position Benin as a future hub for combat sports in West Africa, a place where history, talent, and modern athletic excellence converge.”

Tourism, Culture, and Global Perception

Benin’s appeal extends well beyond sport. The country’s rich history includes the legacy of the Kingdom of Danxomè and the spiritual heritage of Vodun. Contemporary art, protected ecosystems, national parks, and a growing MICE infrastructure complement this heritage. Chekete described the country as “a deeply compelling travel destination, one that blends heritage, authenticity, and modern ambition.”

The PFL Africa Finals provide a platform to showcase this identity globally. Chekete said: “Through cultural showcases, partnerships with international media, and curated experiences for visitors and delegations, we will highlight the depth of our heritage, from the historic city of Ouidah to the symbolism of the Kingdom of Danxomè, from the creative energy of our artists to the beauty of our coastline and protected ecosystems. The event becomes a gateway through which global audiences can discover the many layers of Benin’s cultural, historical, and natural richness.”

The Economic and Strategic Implications

The PFL Africa Finals are not merely a sporting spectacle; they are a calculated step in a broader economic and cultural strategy. With Benin’s economy growing by 7.5% in 2024, and diversification underway beyond agriculture and commodities, hosting international events supports tourism-led growth while enhancing global perception.

Tourism, which reportedly accounted for 1.2% of the country’s GDP in 2021, is now central to a US$1.4 billion investment plan for 2025–2029, aiming to attract 2 million visitors annually and grow tourism’s GDP contribution to 13.4% by 2030. In this context, the PFL Africa Finals act as a high-profile accelerator, promoting Benin’s assets while testing its infrastructure, organisational capacity, and international appeal.

A Nation Rising Through Sport and Culture

As the lights shine on the Sofitel Dome this December, Benin will not only crown four continental MMA champions, but it will also show its ambition, resilience, and cultural pride to the world. The PFL Africa Finals epitomise the country’s vision: leveraging sport as a driver of tourism, economic diversification, and global recognition, while honouring centuries of heritage and the vibrant identity of its people, sending a clear message: “Benin is a country with a strong sense of identity and a clear vision for the future. Hosting the inaugural PFL Africa Finals signals a nation that honours its past while confidently embracing global opportunities,” shares Chekete. “We want visitors, investors, and international observers to see Benin as a place of authenticity, creativity, stability, and ambition, a destination that inspires curiosity, fosters connection, and offers experiences found nowhere else. Benin is a World of Wonders.”