BAL and Qatar Foundation Announce Landmark Partnership for Social Impact Across Africa
The Basketball Africa League (BAL) and Qatar Foundation have officially announced a multiyear collaboration aimed at expanding basketball accessibility and strengthening social impact initiatives across Africa.
Under the agreement, Qatar Foundation becomes the BAL’s first-ever Official Community Partner, supporting programs focused on youth development, court renovations, gender equality, and community engagement. The partnership, facilitated by Qatar Sports Investments, will notably contribute to NBA Africa’s objective of building 1,000 basketball courts across the continent.
A major pillar of the collaboration will be the reinforcement of the league’s BAL4HER initiative, which promotes gender equality and professional opportunities for women in African sports. Beginning this season, Qatar Foundation will support BAL4HER Power Hours in every BAL host city, creating networking and mentorship opportunities for young women pursuing careers in the sports industry.
Qatar Foundation will also become the presenting partner of the Ubuntu Trophy, an annual BAL award recognizing a player for outstanding community impact during the season. In addition, the organization’s logo will now appear on the back of all BAL game jerseys.
BAL President Amadou Gallo Fall welcomed the partnership, emphasizing the shared vision of using basketball as a tool for social transformation across Africa. Qatar Foundation Vice Chairperson Sheikha Hind bint Hamad Al Thani highlighted sport’s ability to foster healthier communities, inclusion, leadership, and long-term social development.
The announcement comes as the BAL prepares for the 2026 Playoffs and Finals in Kigali, Rwanda, from May 22 to May 31. Eight teams have officially qualified for the postseason: Petro de Luanda, Al Ahly, RSSB Tigers, Club Africain, Al Ahly Ly, FUS Rabat, ASC Ville de Dakar and Dar City.