Roc Nation Sports International is making a bold move into Africa’s football scene, marking a major step in its global growth journey.
The global agency, founded by music mogul Jay-Z, officially announced its expansion into the African football market, a decision rooted in over a year of research, planning, and groundwork. The goal? To uncover the continent’s untapped football potential and help young African talents rise to the top of the game.
This isn’t just another international expansion, it’s a strategic and long-term investment. RNSI’s vision is clear: build meaningful partnerships across Africa, discover standout players, and give them the tools, resources, and support they need to thrive, both on and off the pitch.
RNSI is applying its successful global model with a boutique approach, focusing on personalized development for each athlete. The early results are already turning heads. The agency has signed a wave of young talent from countries like South Africa, Ghana, Nigeria, The Gambia, Guinea, and Zimbabwe, players who’ve shown not just skill, but character and drive.
Some of the rising stars already on board include:
- Neo Bohloko (Striker, South Africa, Kaizer Chiefs)
- Ali Umar (Midfielder, Ghana, Koforidua Semper FI FC)
- Joseph Narbi (Winger, Ghana, Benab FC)
- Francis Gomez (Winger, The Gambia, Sibonor United)
- Ifeoluwa Olowoporoku (Attacking Midfielder, Nigeria, Tripple 44)
- Mamadou Diallo (Attacker, Guinea, Al Nasr)
- Tadiwa Chakuchichi (Winger, Zimbabwe, Scotland FC)
- Siyabonga Mabena (Winger, Attacking Midfielder, South Africa, Mamelodi Sundowns)
The expansion also includes scouting and development efforts in the Ivory Coast and Zambia, with more signings expected in the coming months.
Nathan Campbell, RNSI’s Head of Global Recruitment for Football, described the move as a “natural progression” of the agency’s vision to go truly global.
“Africa is full of footballing talent that hasn’t always had the support it deserves. We’re building strong partnerships on the ground, so we can understand the players’ needs and create real, lasting opportunities for them,” he said.
Campbell also praised Grant Veitch, RNSI’s newly appointed Director of Africa Recruitment, for playing a key role in bringing this strategy to life.
Roc Nation Sports isn’t entirely new to Africa. The agency began laying roots on the continent in 2021 through a consultancy partnership with South Africa’s Mamelodi Sundowns, a relationship that continues to flourish. One of the country’s brightest young talents, Emile Witbooi, recently joined the RNSI roster, another sign of the agency’s growing influence in African football.
The move into Africa follows Roc Nation Sports’ expansion into South America, where it acquired Brazil-based TFM Agency in 2023. That acquisition brought over 100 players into the fold, including top Brazilian names like Vinícius Jr, Gabriel Martinelli, and Endrick.
Since setting up its London headquarters in 2019, Roc Nation Sports International has become one of the world’s top 10 football agencies. Its client list features big names like Chris Richards, Federico Dimarco, Luis Henrique, Kerolin, and Malick Fofana.
Now, with its Africa strategy officially underway, RNSI is doubling down on its commitment to developing the next generation of football stars. The agency is also working closely with local partners and consultants, including Ebanor Sports (The Gambia), Olatunji Okuku (Nigeria), Oscar Guirao (Ivory Coast), and Sakibu Nuhu (Ghana), to ensure local knowledge is front and center.
For Roc Nation Sports International, this isn’t just about signing players, it’s about reshaping the future of African football, one young star at a time.