In this special conversation, Panel 54 brings together sports manager Cynthia Mumbo, sports scientist and broadcaster Musa Abdi, Chris Ochieng (Gor Mahia striker), and Elly Asiete (Mathare FC captain) with hosts Waweru Njoroge and Ndu Okoh to explore football’s grip on Africa, from CHAN pride to Premier League passion. The discussion moves beyond the game itself into identity, business, and politics, asking why millions of Africans pledge loyalty to clubs they have never visited, how local leagues can rise to rival global giants, and what it will take for African football to inspire the next generation. They examine how football influences national identity, shapes diplomacy, and becomes a tool for telling Africa’s story to the world. From boda boda banter to billion-dollar rights deals, from grassroots tournaments to the rise of women’s football, they reflect on the power of sport to unite nations, create opportunity, and challenge the status quo. Lagos to Lamu. Cape Town to Cairo. This is Panel 54, a global perspective through an African lens. 📩 Let’s talk: hello@panel54pod.com