Morocco's AFCON Creates 100K Jobs, Boosts Economy 182%

Hosting Africa's biggest football tournament just delivered Morocco an economic victory that rivals any trophy.

The 2025 African Cup of Nations created 100,000 new jobs across Morocco and returned $1.82 for every dollar invested, according to Industry Minister Ryad Mezzour. CAF officials are calling it the most profitable tournament in the competition's 68-year history.

The country compressed a decade of infrastructure progress into 24 months of preparation. New roads, upgraded airports, expanded railways, and improved bus systems now serve millions of Moroccans long after the final whistle blew.

Over 3,000 Moroccan industrial companies contributed to the massive buildout. The projects touched nearly every sector, from transportation hubs to healthcare facilities, creating a lasting foundation for growth.

Local businesses saw sales jump between 25% and 30% during the tournament as fans from across Africa filled hotels, restaurants, and shops. Morocco's economic growth rate climbed above 4.5% for the year, driven partly by the tournament's momentum.

The infrastructure improvements are already paying dividends in daily life. Commuters have faster transport options, patients access better medical facilities, and workers found new opportunities in construction, hospitality, and service industries.

The Ripple Effect

What started as preparation for a month-long sporting event became a catalyst for nationwide transformation. The new infrastructure serves communities that had waited years for upgrades, connecting rural areas to economic centers and improving quality of life across regions.

The jobs created span multiple skill levels and industries, from construction workers who built the stadiums to service staff who welcomed international visitors. Many positions in hospitality, transportation, and facility management will continue supporting Morocco's growing tourism sector.

Even Morocco's national team, despite falling short in the final against Senegal, helped showcase the country's capabilities to a global audience. The combination of world-class facilities and passionate crowds demonstrated Morocco's readiness for future major events.

Minister Mezzour emphasized that the investment wasn't just about football. Every project was designed to accelerate Morocco's long-term development goals, turning a sporting event into an economic springboard.

Morocco proved that hosting a major tournament can deliver genuine, lasting benefits when infrastructure investments prioritize community needs beyond the games themselves.