Roc Nation Sports International (RNSI) has officially launched its African expansion marking a bold new era for the global sports agency founded in 2019.
Known for managing stars across football, rugby, and cricket, RNSI is now stepping onto African soil not as outsiders, but as long-term partners.
This move is not just another business venture. As the agency explains, “This isn’t just a business move. It’s a message: Africa isn’t the sidelines it’s the centre circle.”
For over a year, RNSI has quietly studied the African football ecosystem from Ghana’s backstreets to the townships of South Africa formulating a boutique, not blanket, approach. They’ve made it clear that they’re not here for a “scouting safari,” but instead to “roll out the velvet” for a carefully selected group of young athletes.
Among the agency’s first African signings is an exciting group of rising talent:
- Neo Bohloko (Striker, South Africa, Kaizer Chiefs) – “a fox in the box with a nose for goals.”
- Ali Umar (Central Midfielder, Ghana, Koforidua Semper FI FC) – “a midfield maestro, ticking through traffic.”
- Joseph Narbi (Winger, Ghana, Benab FC) – “all pace and panache down the flanks.”
- Francis Gomez (Winger, The Gambia, Sibonor United) – “as elusive as smoke with boots.”
- Ifeoluwa Olowoporoku (Attacking Midfielder, Nigeria, Tripple 44) – “pulling strings like a conductor in chaos.”
- Mamadou Diallo (Attacker, Guinea, Al Nasr) – “bold and blistering in the final third.”
- Tadiwa Chakuchichi (Winger, Zimbabwe, Scotland FC) – “lightning bottled on the touchline.”
- Siyabonga Mabena (Winger/Attacking Midfielder, South Africa, Mamelodi Sundowns) – “a playmaker born for prime time.”
“These aren’t just names they’re narratives in motion, each one a potential fairytale,” the agency says.
RNSI’s strategy is grounded in collaboration. Their earlier partnership with South Africa’s Mamelodi Sundowns in 2021 laid the foundation, proving that real opportunity lies in long-term investment. That partnership led to the signing of South African star Emile Witbooi an early example of the agency’s belief in the continent’s talent.
In addition to South Africa, Ghana, Nigeria, The Gambia, Guinea, and Zimbabwe, RNSI’s reach will soon extend to Ivory Coast and Zambia. To ensure they stay grounded in local knowledge, they’ve joined forces with trusted scouts and partners including Ebanor Sports (The Gambia), Olatunji Okuku (Nigeria), Oscar Guirao (Ivory Coast), and Sakibu Nuhu (Ghana).
Like a seasoned manager building a title-winning squad, RNSI is combining local insight with global resources. From footballers like Chris Richards and Federico Dimarco, to rugby icons Siya Kolisi and Cheslin Kolbe, and cricket captain Temba Bavuma, the agency’s goal is clear: “elevate every athlete who’s been told the world stage is too big for them.”
“Roc Nation’s African chapter is more than an expansion. It’s a renaissance. A golden generation waiting for its chance to step up and take the penalty.”
For RNSI, this is about more than finding the next star it’s about building a lasting legacy rooted in talent, opportunity, and pride. The future of global football may well be shaped by the brilliance rising right here in Africa.
Written by Faith Mwende
