The tourism impacts of the 2012 Confederation of African Football (Caf) Nations Cup in Gabon

Abstract

Sport tourism events have been recognised as a very important niche market offering great opportunities for countries worldwide. Because of their ability to provide urban, regional and national developments, every country around the globe is increasingly battling to host these events. This study focuses on the tourism impacts of major sport events in the African developing context, the aim being to close the gap currently existing in the literature regarding the subject. The main objective of the study was to determine the tourism impacts of the 2012 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Gabon”. The study adopted a quantitative research approach (descriptive design) to obtain data and findings. Questionnaires were split according to the two match venues (Libreville and Franceville) and administered to visitors. Respondents were remoulded during the course of the event. Despite some negative impacts highlighted and others aspects investigated; the most important finding of the study revealed that Gabon successfully hosted the event which turned out to be good for local communities and contributed to their development. Conclusively, the study confirms that major sport events such as the Africa Cup of Nations have indeed the potential to develop tourism, provide new business opportunities and benefit residents of local communities.